Senate Begins Probe on BOC Smuggling Issue

On the initiative of Senator Sherwin T. Gatchalian, the Senate will begin their probe into the alleged graft practices of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), specifically the untaxed entry of millions worth of smuggled goods into the country

Senator Gatchalian is anticipating that legislators will draw up stricter reforms to stop illegal smuggling practices.

Gatchalian has mentioned that senators are expected to “assess the modernization program of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) amid the influx of smuggled products into the country.” Currently, Gatchalian sits as the Chairman of the Senate Ways and Means Committee which is responsible for the inquiry.

Gatchalian has mentioned that the investigating party will hold an ocular inspection and a walk-through of the modernization program will be held on December 12 at the BOC office in the Port Area, Manila. The members and officers of the Senate Tax Study and Research Office (STSRO).

“Napansin natin na patuloy pa din ang pagpasok ng mga smuggled goods at kailangang matugunan ang problemang ito lalo na ngayong magpapasko at dagsa ang mga mamimili.” mentioned Gatchalian.

According to him, “the BOC’s revenue collection performance would improve if the smuggling of various goods is effectively addressed.” It is predicted that the increase in budget collections can fund government projects if these agencies can meet their targets.

Gatchalian also notes that the BOC recently stopped over ₱63 million worth of frozen products from China and Hong Kong. Just last week, the government confiscated over 100,000 kilos of white onions which were declared as pastries and bread.

Source: Business Mirror