The Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) hosted a meeting to prepare for the Alliance for Financial Inclusion – Global Policy Forum country hosting with Department of Finance (DOF) and Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) on April 20, 2023, at the NAIA Conference Room, Pasay City.

DOF Revenue Generation and Local Finance Group under Secretary Dakila Napao and BSP Financial Inclusion Office (FIO) Director Ellen Joyve L. Suficienca and team, and BOC-NAIA Port’s officials led by District Collector Carmelita “Mimel” Talusan attended the meeting.

The discussion focused on the Port of NAIA’s readiness to assist, expedite, and facilitate international dignitaries, delegates, and guests attending the summit in Manila from September 12 to 15.

The AFI is a global network of central banks and regulatory financial institutions from 75 countries that work together to promote financial inclusion across the globe. The GPF is the landmark event, serving as the comprehensive forum where participants share knowledge, experiences, and initiatives on financial inclusion.

Around 800 people are expected to attend the upcoming AFI-GPF 2023 in Manila, including 700 international delegates from member countries. There are also an estimated 60 VIPs, including heads and senior officials from central banks and other partner institutions.

Given the scale and nature of the AFI-GPF 2023, the BSP, DOF and BOC NAIA recognize the importance of close coordination to ensure the participants’ safe and enjoyable stay in the country. As part of its efforts to facilitate the smooth arrival of the delegates, it intends to streamline and expedite customs clearances and promote investment and tourism for the country.

In his statement, Usec Napao acknowledged the significant contribution of the Port to assist and expedite the clearance of all delegates and baggage including any air shipments needed for the event.

Collector Talusan, on the other hand, said that the Port is ready to support the hosting of any international events and promote investment for the country.

The BOC-NAIA, under the guidance of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, remains at the forefront of trade facilitation in providing excellent service to its stakeholders aligned with the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. #