1 month ago
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The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recognized industry leaders and stakeholders for their contributions to trade facilitation and customs modernization.
At International Customs Day 2025, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio highlighted these contributions, which aligned with the World Customs Organization (WCO) theme.
He also focused on the BOC's ongoing efforts to improve efficiency, security, and economic growth.
The BOC reported that it has worked to strengthen customs administration over the past year, aiming to streamline trade operations and bolster supply chain stability.
A key development in this effort was the formation of the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC), which is intended to foster collaboration between the BOC and the private sector.
Twenty-five CICAC members received WCO Certificates of Merit. Among them was Olivia Limpe-Aw, Chairman and CEO of Destileria Limtuaco, who said, “For the one year we worked together, we truly experienced trade facilitation. This platform allows us to accurately determine challenges and develop strategic solutions.”
The BOC also participated in several WCO initiatives, including the 34th WCO Asia/Pacific Regional Contact Points Meeting and specialized training workshops on customs enforcement and e-waste regulation.
The agency also conducted its 2nd Customs Integrity Perception Survey (CIPS), which it said reflected improved transparency and performance.
Rubio reiterated the agency’s dedication to modernization, stating, “Let us avow again our devotion to innovation. Together, we shall ensure customs service remains resilient and forward-looking.”
He added that the BOC's work to improve trade efficiency and border security aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for public service reform.
