BUREAU of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, continues to be recognized over his firm and successful leadership of the country’s second largest agency after being cited as among the ‘Top 50 Influential People of the Philippines’ during an event last February 10 held at the Bonifacio Global City.
Hosted by ‘Rising Tigers,’ ‘InCharge,’ and ‘TopNewsAsia,’ the event celebrated individuals who have significantly shaped industries and inspired positive change nationwide.
As an awardee in the Public Service and Leadership category, Commissioner Rubio shared the stage with Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman George Erwin Garcia and other distinguished leaders and innovators who are all deemed committed to the country’s progress.
The latest recognition of the customs chief came in the heels of his being feted as ‘Outstanding Public Servant’ during the Gawad Pilipino awarding ceremony last November 19 (Pinoy Exposé, 23, 2024).
Reflecting on his more than two decades in public service, Commissioner Rubio remarked, “For 24 years, I have dedicated my life to public service and witnessed how even the smallest decisions can create ripples of change.
“Public service goes beyond responsibilities—it is about the people we serve and ensuring our reforms benefit the greater good.”
From his early days as a Special Agent I to his current role as Commissioner, Rubio emphasized that leadership is about uplifting others and driving meaningful transformation.
He also acknowledged the challenges the BOC has faced over the years, recalling how negative perceptions of the agency once made him hesitant to introduce himself as a customs officer. However, he expressed pride in the agency’s transformation, highlighting significant strides in trade facilitation, border security, and record-high revenue collection.
“Today, I am not here to change the public’s perception of the BOC, but to show that we have come a long way from where we once were.
“We will continue pushing for a world-class customs administration that upholds good governance,” Commissioner Rubio stated, reinforcing his vision for a more transparent and efficient agency.
As he accepted the award, Commissioner Rubio dedicated the recognition to the hardworking men and women of the agency and reaffirmed his commitment to leading with integrity and purpose.