BOC surpasses May collection target by 7.52%

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) saw higher revenue collection in May amid strengthened anti-smuggling efforts and the streamlining of trade facilitation procedures.

In a statement on Friday, the BOC reported a total collection of P77.793 billion last month, exceeding its target of P72.350 billion by 7.52%, or P5.443 billion.

The Customs also surpassed its collection in May last year by P11.505 billion, or 17.36%.

Year-to-date, the BOC has collected P359.175 billion, overshooting its target for the January–May period of P345.943 billion by 3.82%, or P13.232 billion.

Year-on-year, the bureau’s cumulative collection saw an increase of 12.06%.

The BOC attributed its collection performance to intensified anti-smuggling measures that curtailed illicit activities and resulted in the seizure of contraband valued at over P19 billion. 

"Notably, on February 17, 2023, the BOC discovered approximately P150 million worth of agricultural products in 24 warehouses in Metro Manila. On March 20, 2023, the BOC confiscated 58.93 kilograms of shabu valued at P400 million at the Pair Cargo Warehouse in Pasay City," it said.

"Additionally, on May 4, 2023, BOC uncovered around 1,350 kiloliters of smuggled diesel fuel worth P54 million from twelve compartments of the vessel ‘MV Veronica-1’ at the sub-port of Sual in Pangasinan," it added.

The BOC also cited its digitalization efforts, rated at 96.39%, which have streamlined customs procedures, enhanced trade operations, and improved processing times and accuracy in import and export transactions. 

The World Bank Logistics Performance Index ranked the Philippines 43rd among 139 countries, highlighting advancements in trade facilitation.

"Pro-active collaboration with other government agencies, including the Department of Information and Communications Technology, the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Plant Industry, the Department of Justice, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, has simplified customs procedures and facilitated secured trade," the BOC said.

"Active engagement with stakeholders has enhanced BOC's services through open communication… training programs and incentives have empowered BOC personnel, increasing productivity and contributing to the agency's outstanding performance," it said. —VBL, GMA Integrated News