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DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque (2nd from left) congratulates BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio (3rd from left) upon receiving the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan Award. Looking on (left) is DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla.The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio received the Gawad Bayanihan sa Pamumuhunan award for their efforts in streamlining customs processes, thereby enhancing the Philippines' appeal to investors.
Rubio was recognized by the Department of Trade and Industry - Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) during a ceremony held at Malacañang Palace on Thursday, March 13.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. noted that the award serves as an encouragement for agencies to maintain momentum in aligning their goals with the country's economic priorities.
The BOC was specifically cited for its 2024 reforms, which included the institutionalization of the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC), which is aimed to enhance collaboration with industry stakeholders.
The agency also expanded the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program to accredit trusted traders and launched the ATA Carnet system, facilitating duty-free temporary imports.
Furthermore, the BOC issued preferential tariff guidelines under the Philippines-Korea Free Trade Agreement (PH-KR FTA) to maximize trade benefits.
These actions were taken to improve trade efficiency, reduce processing times, and support strategic investments under Executive Order No. 18 (EO 18) on Green Lanes.
Rubio said that the award reaffirms the BOC's commitment to modernizing customs processes and ensuring the growth of strategic investments in the Philippines.
He added that the agency will continue to push for reforms that promote seamless trade and economic growth.
The DTI-BOI noted that these initiatives significantly enhanced trade security, reduced bottlenecks, and created a more competitive investment landscape, strengthening the Philippines' position in regional and global trade.
