DOF, BOC start dialog on rules for CMTA

The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Customs on Wednesday began the first in a series of consultations on the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Republic Act 10863 or CMTA, signed by former President Benigno Aquino III in late May, aims to modernize and institute reforms in the BOC.

The BOC, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, and the Land Transportation Office, were tagged by President Rodrigo Duterte as most corrupt government agencies in the country.

A consultative forum at Bureau of the Treasury's office in Manila was organized to clarify the procedure in drafting the CMTA IRR and gather inputs from stakeholders.

“There are so many things that we need to put in place so that we can fix the bureau. Today’s activity will give the answer to this,” BOC Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon noted in his remarks.

Faeldon plans to beef up border security measures, especially in provincial ports, to increase collections and prevent smuggling. 

“If we want to improve our collection ... we have to do our part in border security in order to help stop smuggling, the commissioner said.

CMTA requires the BOC to come up with an improved system on customs administration and procedures that comply with international standards.

With the new law in place, several reforms will be implemented—including the electronic processing of all documents, forms and receipts; streamlining methods for the examination and valuation of imports and exports; and simplified process for seizing and disposing illegal goods. — Ted Cordero/VDS, GMA News