Screengrab from Julius Babao YT

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has assured the public of its commitment to support the Senate investigation into the luxury vehicles owned by the Discaya family, as part of the broader probe into alleged anomalous flood control projects.

In a statement, the BOC emphasized that it is acting in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify efforts against smuggling and ensure the correct collection of duties and taxes under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno confirmed that the agency, backed by a Manila court-issued search warrant, has already inspected several vehicles found in the Discaya residence in Pasig City. At least 12 units have been identified so far, though officials are verifying whether more are linked to the family.

“We are giving the Discaya family the opportunity to present their documents and prove that the proper duties and taxes were paid. If these vehicles were acquired in good faith through dealers or brokers, we will also look into the accountability of those who facilitated the transactions,” Nepomuceno said.

The BOC noted that if evidence of misdeclaration, underpayment, or non-payment of duties is established, the agency will have to enforce its mandate through warrants of seizure and detention.

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, chaired by Senator Rodante Marcoleta, is currently leading the inquiry into the matter. While the BOC refrained from disclosing further details pending the investigation, it assured the public that the agency remains firm in enforcing customs laws “with fairness, transparency, and due process.”