Public warned vs scammer posing as new BOC chief

In a statement, the bureau said that a certain Ariel Roselle Victorino, also known as Ariel Roa Victorino, allegedly a relative of President Rodrigo Duterte, was reported to have produced a letter stating that he would take over the post of the Customs chief. (Photo: Bureau of Customs PH/ Facebook)

MANILA–The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has warned the public against an individual who is misrepresenting himself as the replacement of Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon.

In a statement, the bureau said that a certain Ariel Roselle Victorino, also known as Ariel Roa Victorino, allegedly a relative of President Rodrigo Duterte, was reported to have produced a letter stating that he would take over the post of the Customs chief.

The letter was supposedly signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea.

Likewise, the BOC noted that it had also received complaints that Victorino had been extorting money from customs employees, brokers, and even smugglers in exchange for protection and immunity from suit.

With this, Faeldon urged the public to disclose the names of other individuals who have been involved in extorting money in exchange for protection.

It noted that he has several pending criminal cases in the courts for estafa and fraud.

National Bureau of Investigation records revealed that it had arrested Ariel and one Hershey Victorino for reportedly duping five applicants for a US visa.

The BOC added that (Ariel) Victorino was accused of extorting money from garbage contractors after claiming to be the chief of Manila’s Department of Public Service in June 2013.

For assistance, the public may call the BOC Cares hotline numbers 705-6052 or 705-6000, or email boc.cares@customs.gov.ph.