Customs implements policy vs nepotism

Commissioner John P. Sevilla. FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—In an effort to institutionalize meritocracy and professionalism, the Bureau of Customs (BoC) issued an administrative order prohibiting nepotistic practices within the bureau.

By virtue of Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 03-2014, BoC would not appoint or designate relatives of current regular, temporary and casual employees and officers within the fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity.

BoC Commissioner John P. Sevilla said the administrative order will rule out corruption and conflict of interest within the bureau.

“I think this is a step in the right direction as we try to wipe out the culture of corruption that has plagued the Bureau since time immemorial. I am not saying that those with relatives working in the Bureau are corrupt but we are eradicating any suspicion on our employees,” said Sevilla.

However, the rule has exempted relatives who are now employed in the bureau during the time of effectivity of the said administrative order. But, no employee can be designated to the same office or section in which a relative is holding office.

The administrative order also provided that all existing employees who are related to each other within the fourth degree of consanguinity and affinity will be re-assigned to a separate office.

By virtue of the administrative order, persons applying for positions in the BoC will have to declare if they have relatives working within the bureau.

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