The gloves are off at the Bureau of Customs-Port of Zamboanga.

Under the fearless leadership of District Collector Elenita A. Abaño, the Port of Zamboanga is no longer just processing cargo—it is waging an aggressive war against smugglers, economic saboteurs, and illegal traders who have long attempted to exploit the country’s borders.

The recent 2026 Stakeholders’ Forum was more than a routine gathering. It was a powerful declaration that the Port of Zamboanga is raising the bar in customs modernization, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling enforcement.

Collector Abaño delivered a strong message: legitimate business will always find a partner in Customs, but smugglers will find an unrelenting adversary.

What sets Abaño apart is her relentless drive for innovation and reform.

Under her stewardship, the Port of Zamboanga has strengthened stakeholder engagement, expanded partnerships with law enforcement agencies, enhanced regulatory compliance programs, and accelerated customs modernization initiatives designed to make transactions faster, more transparent, and more efficient.

Industry players, customs brokers, importers, and government partners gathered under one roof, united by a common objective—protecting lawful trade while shutting down illegal activities that deprive the government of vital revenues.

The forum also showcased key reforms involving the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, accreditation systems, and enforcement mechanisms that are helping create a more business-friendly yet highly secured trading environment.

But perhaps the most significant achievement of Abaño’s administration is the growing confidence of the business sector.

Through transparency, professionalism, and decisive leadership, she has transformed stakeholder relations from mere compliance into active collaboration.

The recognition of top importers and newly accredited importers during the event further highlighted the Port’s commitment to rewarding legitimate businesses that contribute to economic growth and national development.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies received well-deserved recognition for standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Customs in the relentless fight against smuggling.

As the ZAMBASULTA Growth Area continues to emerge as a strategic economic hub, Abaño is positioning the Port of Zamboanga as a vital gateway for trade, investment, and regional prosperity.

Her formula is simple but effective: modernize operations, strengthen partnerships, empower legitimate traders, and relentlessly pursue smugglers.

The result?
A stronger Customs bureau, a more secure border, increased investor confidence, and a growing economy.

At the Port of Zamboanga, Collector Elenita A. Abaño is proving that effective customs leadership is not measured by words alone—but by results.

And judging by the momentum she has built, the message is crystal clear:
Smugglers beware. Zamboanga Customs is on the offensive.

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