A major shake-up has rocked the Bureau of Customs (BOC) as Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno implements a sweeping personnel reassignment, placing Atty. Manuel “Manny” O. Zurbito Jr. at the helm of one of the agency’s most critical enforcement units.

Under Customs Personnel Order No. B-217-2026, dated October 9, 2026, Zurbito was reassigned from his post as District Collector of the Port of Zamboanga to become Director of the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), Enforcement Group, carrying Salary Grade 27.

The appointment puts Zurbito in a crucial position in the BOC’s continuing campaign against smuggling, customs fraud, illicit trade, and other violations threatening government revenue and national economic security.

This is no ordinary personnel movement.

The Enforcement and Security Service is among the Bureau’s frontline enforcement arms, tasked with supporting operations against illegal activities involving imported goods and protecting the country’s borders from unlawful trade.

With Zurbito taking command, expectations are high that enforcement operations will receive renewed direction, stronger leadership, and a more aggressive approach against smugglers and unscrupulous traders.

FROM ZAMBOANGA COLLECTOR TO ENFORCEMENT CHIEF!

Zurbito’s reassignment is one of four major personnel movements covered by the order signed by Commissioner Nepomuceno.

Other changes include:

* Romulo V. Arugay – From the Office of the Commissioner to District Collector of the Port of Aparri.
* Noel C. Estanislao – From Acting Director of ESS, Enforcement Group, to the Office of the Commissioner.
* Segundo Sigmunfreud Z. Barte Jr. – From District Collector of the Port of Aparri to District Collector of the Port of Zamboanga.

The order was signed by Commissioner Nepomuceno on October 9, 2026, and approved by Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go on October 19, 2026. It took effect immediately and will remain in force until revoked.

A NEW TEST OF LEADERSHIP!

For Zurbito, the new assignment carries enormous responsibility. He now assumes a critical role in the Bureau’s enforcement machinery at a time when the government is demanding stronger action against smuggling networks, revenue leakages, and other illegal activities.

The challenge is clear: deliver results, strengthen enforcement, and demonstrate that the BOC will not give smugglers and lawbreakers any room to operate.

Under Nepomuceno’s leadership, the reshuffle signals another decisive move to realign key officials and strengthen the Bureau’s operational command.

MANNY ZURBITO IS NOW IN THE ENFORCEMENT HOT SEAT. THE REAL BATTLE AGAINST SMUGGLING BEGINS!

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