The Bureau of Customs (BOC) collected a record P664.78 billion in the first eight months of 2026, putting the agency P5.47 billion ahead of target and giving the government a revenue cushion as it heads into the final four months of the year.
Preliminary data showed January-to-August collections exceeded the P659.31-billion target by P5.47 billion and rose 7 percent, or P43.39 billion, from P621.39 billion a year earlier. The tally was the highest recorded by the BOC for the first eight months of any year.
The surplus gives the government some room against its revenue targets, while the year-on-year increase points to sustained gains in customs collection despite disruptions to trade and port operations.
The BOC said heavy rains and work suspensions disrupted cargo movement and Customs operations for nearly two weeks in several areas, affecting the processing and movement of shipments.
In August alone, the BOC collected P81.36 billion, up 5.1 percent from P77.35 billion a year earlier. The monthly tally fell short of target, but the strong performance in previous months kept the agency ahead of its cumulative goal.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno credited collection districts, industry partners, and other stakeholders for helping sustain the revenue gains despite operational disruptions.
“This year’s performance reflects the commitment of our people to deliver, even in the face of challenges,” Nepomuceno said.
With four months left in 2026, the BOC said it will focus on sustaining collections through stronger compliance, accurate valuation and declaration, enforcement, and closer coordination with the trading community while facilitating legitimate trade.
The agency’s revenue performance also builds on a strong first seven months, when collections reached a record P587.71 billion and exceeded the period target by P11.35 billion.
