Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno said compliance by importers under the ambit of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) is key for the agency’s performance of duties.
“Your faithful compliance and active cooperation with customs authorities have enabled us to build trust, protect the country’s borders from illicit trade and smuggling, and collect lawful revenues that reflect the dynamism of Philippine trade and commerce,” said Diokno in a ceremony that honored BOC stakeholders late last week.
In 2022, the BOC exceeded its annual target with collections of more than P862 billion, 34 percent higher than the P643 billion collected in 2021.
Diokno cited the BOC’s efforts such as the 8-Point Priority Program for 2023 that intensifies border protection and enforcement efforts and the inauguration of the Authorized Economic Operator Program for the success, which is one of the four key components of the World Customs Organization’s (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards.
The framework aims to promote seamless movement of goods among WCO members through secure international trade supply chains.
“The effective implementation of this program sends a strong signal to the business community and our international partners that the Philippines is open for business,” he said.
Diokno renewed his call towards the digitalization of the customs administration to facilitate tax compliance, boost revenue generation and inspire broader trust in the Philippine tax system.
“The Department of Finance stands in full solidarity with you. Together, let us continue to make our country proud through honest and selfless public service,” he said. – Ruelle Castro
