Modernized Customs operations eyed

MANILA, Philippines — Digitalization, systems enhancement and collaborative reform efforts have been reviewed by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Makati Business Club.

At a recent meeting, MBC executive director Rafael Ongpin and BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and highlighted the importance of public-private cooperation in modernizing Customs processes and strengthening trade facilitation.

Priority areas for accelerated implementation include the modernization of the Customs payment system and automation of assessment processes.

Integration of X-ray scanning capabilities, enhancements to public-facing importer platforms and upgrades to improve real-time processing of transactions are also included.

The MBC will assist in drafting and refining the terms of reference for major information and communication technology procurements.

Terms of reference for the Customs revenue system and other critical digital infrastructure will also be crafted.

Attendees at the meeting include BOC Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip Maronilla; Mimi Lopez-Malvar, director for government relations of Procter & Gamble; Hiren Mirchandani, CEO of Ramesh Trading; Carlo Valerio, senior partner at Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia; JJ Ocaña, head of government affairs and general management at Schneider Electric; Phillip Fullon, government and political affairs representative of Shopee, and Geeta Keswani, MBC projects and grants manager.