Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno expects the digital transformation in the Bureau of Customs to improve trade, revenue collection, border control and development of employees.
Diokno, in the Customs mid-year report, lauded Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio for the agency’s achievements and innovative strategies in driving efficiency and transparency.
Diokno said these initiatives would increase trade and revenue collection, strengthen border control measures and foster the professional advancement of its employees.
The Customs unveiled six automation projects—a major step towards enhancing efficiency and transparency in its operations.
These automation projects include the BayaniBox, Link.BizPortal, Automated Export Declaration System, Digitalized Official Receipt System, Customs Auction Monitoring System and Redesigned BOC Website.
The BayaniBox is a BOC initiative in partnership with eScience Corporation to streamline the processing of balikbayan boxes, providing overseas Filipinos and their families a seamless experience in customs clearance.
The BOC, in partnership with Land Bank of the Philippines, will soon utilize the Link.BizPortal, creating a user-friendly online platform for customs transactions and payment processing.
The Automated Export Declaration System will simplify export processes and documentation, reducing red tape and expediting trade facilitation.
The Digitalized Official Receipt System, in partnership with the APO Production Unit, Inc., is a paperless solution for the electronic issuance and tracking of official receipts, ensuring accuracy and accessibility of financial records.
The Customs Auction Monitoring System will enhance transparency in the auction process for seized goods, fostering integrity and accountability.
The Redesigned BOC Website provides a more user-friendly and informative website, giving stakeholders easy access to customs-related information and services.
Rubio highlighted the Customs’ significant accomplishments under its 5-Point Priority Program in the first semester of 2023. The Customs exceeded its revenue collection target by 3.04 percent, with a total collection of P433.433 billion.
The Philippines climbed 17 places in the World Bank Logistics Performance Index, ranking 43rd among 139 countries, a testament to the Customs’ efforts in improving the ease of doing business.
The agency’s anti-smuggling operations led to 603 seizures worth over P23 billion from January to June 2023, showcasing the bureau’s relentless commitment to combat illicit trade activities.
The agency hired 71 new personnel and promoted 214 employees.
It obtained 23 ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certificates, reflecting its dedication to providing top-notch services to stakeholders.