Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno highlighted the agency’s progress in revenue collection, digitalization, and trade facilitation as it continues reforms toward a more efficient and responsive Customs administration.
During the recent “Balitaan sa Harbor View” organized by Manila City Hall Reporters’ Association, Commissioner Nepomuceno reported that the BOC collected more than ₱664 billion against its ₱659-billion target, exceeding the goal by more than ₱5 billion. He emphasized that reforms and strong revenue collection can go hand in hand.
“Ang mindset na dinatnan natin diyan ay kapag nagreporma ka, magdudusa o mahihirapan ang collection. Hindi ako naniwala diyan, walang logic. Habang ginagawa mo ang reporma, lalo mong magagawa ang tamang koleksyon, that’s more logical.”
Digitalization remains central to the Bureau’s reforms, with available technologies and digital solutions being adopted to improve processes and address longstanding operational challenges.
“With the help of our other officers, the Bureau of Customs will be different, better than when we inherited the agency,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
The Commissioner also emphasized faster processing of legitimate shipments. Customs personnel have been directed to complete assessments within five days, while airport shipments with complete documents are generally expected to be released within one day and, at most, three days.
The BOC is likewise preparing for increased shipment volumes and potential port congestion while strengthening its three core mandates of revenue collection, trade facilitation, and enforcement.
On border protection, Nepomuceno highlighted the use of X-ray screening, intelligence-sharing, and canine operations to detect prohibited and illicit goods, alongside efforts to further strengthen Customs capabilities at the country’s ports and gateways.
Through these reforms, the BOC continues to pursue faster and more reliable Customs services while strengthening border protection and facilitating legitimate trade.
