The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has temporarily removed the online duty and tax calculator (ODTC) from its website to allow for system improvements.
In a statement on Monday, August 18, Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said he issued the directive as he apologized to actress Bella Padilla, who used social media to question the P4,600 charged for her PHP11,000 shipment despite the ODTC showing only P1,650 in taxes.
“To avoid similar situations in the future, I directed that the calculator be taken down until enhancements are completed. The upgraded system will provide a more comprehensive breakdown, ensuring that all applicable charges are properly reflected,” he said in a statement.
Nepomuceno explained that the computation of duties and taxes is based on the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and related regulations.
While the calculator provided estimates, he said it did not automatically reflect all lawful charges required by law, which could confuse users when they compared the online estimate with the final assessment.
Nepomuceno said they have started developing an improved version of the tool that will be regularly updated to reflect prevailing rates. The new online calculator will also provide the public with a clearer and more transparent picture of their total dues in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to respond promptly and effectively to the concerns of the public, the Customs chief said.
“We are committed to transparency, accuracy, and continuous improvement in our processes. I apologize for any confusion this may have caused and thank the public for their feedback, which helps us serve better,” he added.
At the same time, Nepomuceno also recognized the importance of public feedback in improving government services.
“We respect and support the public in voicing out their concerns and grievances. We commend Ms. Bela Padilla for raising her point calmly and professionally. Constructive feedback like this helps us strengthen transparency and better serve the public,” he said. (PNA)
