DOF calls on stakeholders to weigh in on CMTA IRR

The Department of Finance (DOF) wants stakeholders to get involved in drafting the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Signed by then-President Benigno Aquino III in late May, CMTA aims to modernize and institute reforms at the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The vision behind the law is to facilitate trade, cut red tape and corruption, and improve the delivery of Customs-related services.

"For inquiries, comments and suggestions on the proposed IRR of the law, one can email the CMTA Project Management Office and Secretariat at cmta.irr.pmo@customs.gov.ph and cmta_irr@dof.gov.ph," the Finance Department said.

The DOF has also created the microsite www.dof.gov.ph/cmta_irr for transparency in crafting the CIMTA IRR.

The DOF and the BOC held the first of a series of public consultations on the CMTA's implementing rules at the Ayuntamiento de Manila in Intramuros on August 17.

With the new law in place, the reforms to be implemented include the electronic processing of all documents, forms and receipts; streamlining methods for examining and valuating imports and exports; and simplified process for seizing and disposing illegal goods. — Jon Viktor Cabuenas/VDS, GMA News