Protestors call for Customs chief Lina’s resignation

MANILA, Philippines – While the President Benigno Aquino III has stopped the physical inspection of balikbayan boxes, groups continue to call for the resignation of Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina.

Furious protesters slammed the Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday, August 27. With empty balikbayan boxes, they carried messages, “Stop stealing from OFW boxes” and “Respect our OFWs.”

Sonny Melencio, chairperson of the Partido ng Lakas ng Masa, told reporters that they are calling for Lina’s resignation because they think it is the only way to “cleanse” the bureau.

The groups highlighted Lina’s business interests as a possible conflict of interest. “He (Lina) did not fully divest from his businesses. He is doing that for the companies he owns. At the end, he is the one to monopolize freight forwarding,” Melencio said.

Security had to close the gates to stop rallyists from entering the BOC’s main office. Members then began throwing boxes over the gates in protest.

Earlier that day, Manual Lamata, president of the Sugar Alliance of the Philippines, called for Lina’s resignation because of rampant sugar smuggling. “He has to step down. If he can’t stop it, he should be the one to be removed and replaced by the President,” Lamata said during the public viewing of the seized sugar from Thailand at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).

“He (Lina) promised and he keeps on promising that there is no smuggling, but it is still there. He better step down,” Lamata said.

In responding to calls for his resignation, the BOC chief said, “I serve at the pleasure of the President.”

“Why should I resign?” Lina, who looked calm, told a handful of reporters in an interview.

How is Lina dealing with the controversy? He replied, “I’m okay. I’m enjoying my job here. It is exciting. There is a lot of things to do in Customs.” – Rappler.com