The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized P18.11 billion worth of smuggled goods in the first quarter of the year.
The BOC said during the period, it has revoked the accreditation of 11 importers and three customs brokers and filed 16 criminal charges against unscrupulous stakeholders.
The BOC also marked 4.81 billion liters of fuel and collected P61.1 billion in duties and taxes during the period, discouraging illicit trade and fraudulent practices against customs revenue.
The bureau likewise reported that it made significant progress in digitalizing customs processes.
During the first quarter of 2024, the BOC commenced the pilot implementation of the e-Travel Customs System, along with the utilization of the Electronic Customs Baggage and Currency Declaration Form in nine international airports nationwide, which expedited current customs procedures that elevated transacting travelers’ experience.
In terms of revenue collection, the BOC generated P219.385 billion, surpassing its first quarter target by P8.489 billion.
Additional revenues were collected through the Prior Disclosure Program and other audit findings, totaling to P1.088 billion and P89.071 million, respectively.
Further, P3.89 million was obtained through public auctions.