The Philippines has improved its ranking from third to second spot among Southeast Asian nations in the 2023 UN Global Survey, according to the Bureau of Customs (BOC).
The UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation graded the Philippines’ implementation rate at 87.1% this year, against 86.02% in 2021.
With the scores that the country gained for 2023, the Philippines, together with Malaysia and Indonesia, placed second in the Southeast Asian region, following Singapore with a score of 96.77%.
The survey tracks progress made on implementing trade facilitation measures. It evaluates transparency, formalities, institutional arrangements and cooperation, paperless trade, and cross-border paperless trade.
“We take immense pride in the Philippines’ remarkable ascent to the second spot in the 2023 UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation,” Customs Commissioner Bienvenido.
The survey, jointly conducted by various UN bodies, provides an in-depth analysis of trade facilitation progress in the country and highlights its remarkable achievements in fostering efficiency and promoting international collaboration.
He said that one of the key factors contributing to the Philippines’ success on the global stage is the BOC’s active participation in regional and sub-regional initiatives.
Rubio meanwhile implemented a change in leadership in the BOC. He ordered the transfer of Port of Manila district collector Maritess Martin to the Port of Davao to replace
Guillermo Pedro Francia who was reassigned to the Port of Limay.
Martin was replaced by Manila International Container Port deputy collector for assessment Rizalino Jose Torralba, who in turn was replaced by Batangas deputy collector for operations Filemon Mendoza Jr.
Port of Limay collector Alexandra Lumontad replaced Port of Cagayan de Oro collector Erastus Sandino Austria who was reassigned to the Port of Clark.
Port of Subic collector Carmelita Talusan replaced X-ray Inspection Project chief Giovanni Imaysay who was transferred as district collector of Port of Iloilo.