New BOC Cebu chief takes over as port builds on strong first-half performance

Local

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Cebu has welcomed Atty. Zsae Carrie C. De Guzman as its new district collector, succeeding Alexandra Yap-Lumontad, who has been promoted to service director of the Bureau's Financial Management Office.

De Guzman officially assumed office on July 7 and immediately laid out her vision of transforming the Port of Cebu into the country's "friendliest port."

She said she wants to foster a workplace where employees are inspired to serve with integrity, professionalism and mutual respect.

"The true strength of the Port of Cebu lies not only in what we accomplish, but in how we accomplish it," De Guzman told customs personnel, stressing that excellence begins with a culture of teamwork and respect.

She marked the start of her tenure with a Holy Mass attended by port officials and employees before meeting with key personnel to discuss priorities.

De Guzman also reaffirmed the port's commitment to advancing the Bureau's core mandates of revenue collection, trade facilitation and border protection in line with the directives of Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno.

Her appointment follows Yap-Lumontad's successful stint as district collector, during which the Port of Cebu posted strong gains in revenue collection and anti-smuggling efforts.

The leadership transition came a day after the port honored customs personnel for exceeding their June 2026 revenue target and for their role in intercepting smuggled cigarettes.

In her farewell message, Yap-Lumontad thanked employees for their dedication and teamwork, saying the port's accomplishments were made possible through their shared commitment to public service.

From January to June 2026, the Port of Cebu collected ₱25.331 billion, exceeding its target by more than ₱376 million.

June collections alone reached ₱4.75 billion, beating the month's goal by ₱585 million.

The port also intensified its anti-smuggling campaign, leading to the seizure of 36 containers loaded with illicit cigarettes valued at about ₱1.84 billion.

It likewise continued to improve cargo processing and customs compliance while strengthening coordination with law enforcement agencies and other government partners.(MyTVCebu)