Leadership transitions in the Bureau of Customs are more than ceremonial handshakes—they are defining moments that determine whether reforms move forward or lose momentum. At the Port of Zamboanga, the message is unmistakable: the mission continues, and the standards only get higher.

On July 10, 2026, District Collector Atty. Manuel O. Zurbito Jr. officially assumed command of the Bureau of Customs–Port of Zamboanga, taking over from District Collector Elenita A. Abaño in a turnover ceremony that symbolized continuity, stability, and a renewed drive for excellence.

Atty. Zurbito arrives with a strong reputation for results-driven leadership and disciplined customs administration. His appointment sends a clear signal that the Bureau remains relentless in strengthening revenue collection, intensifying border protection, accelerating legitimate trade, and delivering faster, more transparent public service. Expectations are high—and rightly so. The Port of Zamboanga stands as a strategic gateway in Mindanao, where every decision carries national economic and security implications.

But every new chapter deserves recognition of the one that came before.

District Collector Elenita A. Abaño leaves behind a legacy built on commitment, professionalism, and unwavering public service. Under her stewardship, the Port strengthened customs enforcement, deepened partnerships with stakeholders, advanced trade facilitation initiatives, and enhanced operational efficiency. Her leadership demonstrated that firm governance and collaborative engagement can move the Bureau closer to its mandate of protecting the nation’s borders while supporting economic growth.

Rather than a change in direction, this transition represents the passing of a strong foundation to capable hands. Collector Abaño’s accomplishments have paved the way for Collector Zurbito to raise the bar even higher.

With the full backing of BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s Integrity, Accountability, and Modernization (I AM) Agenda, the challenge before Collector Zurbito is clear: protect every peso due to the government, shut the door on smugglers, facilitate legitimate trade without compromise, and ensure that the Port of Zamboanga continues to be a model of integrity and operational excellence.

The Bureau of Customs is entering another critical phase of reform, and the Port of Zamboanga is expected to remain at the forefront of that transformation.

The torch has been passed.

Collector Elenita Abaño exits with honor and a record of meaningful accomplishments.

Collector Manuel O. Zurbito Jr. now takes the helm with the responsibility to build on that legacy and drive the Port toward even greater achievements.

For the Port of Zamboanga, this is not simply a leadership change—it is the beginning of a more determined, more aggressive, and more accountable chapter in the Bureau’s continuing march toward world-class customs service.

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