The Bureau of Customs (BOC) vowed to strengthen its campaign against all forms of smuggling, digitalize customs processes, and implement projects aimed at reaching the P1 trillion collection target for 2024, as the bureau marked its 122nd anniversary yesterday.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, who led the agency’s anniversary celebration, unveiled a five-point priority program that would boost the bureau’s efforts to realize its goals for 2024.
“These programs include the Digitalization of Customs Processes, Surpassing Collection Targets, Streamlining Procedures to Facilitate Secure Trade, Combating Smuggling in All Forms, and Enhancing Employee Welfare and Development,” Rubio said.
In line with BOC’s commitment to combat smuggling, the bureau condemned millions of pesos worth of forfeited vape products discovered in Valenzuela in October 2023.
During the celebration, the BOC donated assorted goods to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) from the BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport, in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s advocacy for social responsibility.
The event coincides with the launching of Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC), a consultative body between the BOC and the business se tor, addressing existing and potential Customs and industry issues, promoting mutual understanding, and strengthening the BOC’s harmonious relationship with its industry partners.
The BOC, the government’s second largest revenue generating agency has successfully expanded its programs and services and rode the wave of digitalization to propel the agency’s performance.
“We look back to over a century of accomplishments and values which have changed the course of our institution for the better, and we look forward to a concrete sense of the future fueled by our passion to serve our stakeholders and fully modernize our customs administration.” Rubio added.