The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has reported a revenue collection of P9.459 billion, surpassing its 2023 target by 1.08%, which was set at P874.166. Since January 2023, BOC’s total preliminary collection has reached P883.624 billion.
BOC attributed this to an intensive campaign against smuggling and the acceleration of digitalization initiatives in the previous year, resulting in improved trade facilitation.
“In 2024, expect the Bureau to continue modernizing its customs administration and processes to curb illicit trade effectively, generate more revenues to fund the government’s priority development projects, ensure the protection of our consumers, and enhance the country’s ease of doing business,” Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said in a media advisory.
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As part of monitoring and post-evaluation efforts, the BOC revoked the accreditation of 118 importers and 46 customs brokers found in violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act between January and December 2023.
Digitalization rate
The BOC has achieved a 96.99% digitalization rate by digitalizing 161 out of 166 customs processes. Notable systems include the One-Stop Electronic Travel Declaration System (E-Travel System), launched on Nov. 21, 2023, in collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). This system allows travelers and crew members to declare dutiable goods before arrival.
The Overstaying Cargo Tracking System provides data on disposition activities for all overstaying containers in all ports, including auction, condemnation, or donation.
On Dec. 13, 2023, the BOC introduced the National Customs Intelligence System (NCIS), a website gathering intelligence data from various sources to enable informed decision-making analysis and more responsive policies.
Several upcoming initiatives include the BOC e-Pay Portal System, the e-Auction System, and the Automated Export Declaration System (AEDS).
Image from BOC Facebook page.