BOC Implemented 7 Digitalization Projects

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said it implemented seven digitalization projects for its key processes and operations last year to enhance trade facilitation in the country, reaching an overall rate of 91%.

The projects include the liquidation and billing system for notices and demand letters, as well as computerized electronic customs baggage and currencies declaration system for passengers and crew members.

The agency also improved its raw materials liquidation system and digitized the national customs intelligence system that stores data from all the intelligence sources through web forms and Excel format.

It also started the electronic-to-mobile tracking of the cargo system integration to provide and capture the actual arrival time of containers at the destination.

The BOC also upgraded its payment application system for more efficiency and accuracy in processing details of payable duties and taxes.

Furthermore, the BOC started the ASEAN customs declaration document, a digital tool for exchanging customs declaration documents within the region to improve bureaucratic efficiency and reduce barriers to entry.

In line with the digitalization transition, the BOC continued to facilitate the onboarding of trade regulatory government agencies (TRGA) into the national single window (NSW).

Moreover, Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz ordered all ports to expedite the disposition of all forfeited and abandoned goods to prevent high yard utilization.

Thus, the BOC disposed of 1,325 overstaying containers which were either auctioned off or donated to different government agencies.

Source: Philstar