MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BoC) said it has sought a dialogue with the American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) and the US Embassy over a report by the US Department of State branding the BoC as among the most corrupt government agencies in the country. “The Bureau of Customs acknowledges the concerns raised by our international partners and responds with resolve, not resistance. We have provided information through the proper diplomatic channels to clarify our ongoing reforms and have requested a dialogue with the American Chamber of Commerce and the US Embassy to further strengthen cooperation," Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said on Tuesday. Nepomuceno added that a formal response to the report, which identified bribery and corruption as barriers to investment in the Philippines, has been conveyed to the AmCham and the US Embassy through the Department of Foreign Affairs. He stressed that he initiated sweeping reforms to address systemic corruption in the bureau upon his appointment in July. These include the tightening of enforcement protocols, the suspension of the implementation of Letters of Authorities and Mission Orders to prevent arbitrary actions, the prohibition of conflicts of interest among personnel, and the strict enforcement of the Bureau’s “No-Take Policy.” "Under my leadership, the Bureau will be a firm, fair, and transparent institution—one that enforces the law without fear or favor, protects legitimate trade, and upholds the integrity of our nation’s borders and economy,” Nepomuceno said.