The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has achieved another significant milestone by surpassing its revenue collection target for May 2023. The BOC collected a total of P77.793 billion in May 2023, surpassing its target collection of P72.350 billion by P5.443 billion or 7.52%. This represents a remarkable growth of P11.505 billion or 17.36% compared to the previous year’s collection.

Based on a preliminary report, the BOC’s total revenue collection from January 1 to May 31, 2023, reached P359.175 billion, exceeding the target of P345.943 billion by P13.232 billion or 3.82%. This reflects a significant growth of P38.661 billion or 12.06% compared to the previous year.

Revenue Drivers

The BOC attributes its improved collection performance to strategic initiatives aligned with Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio’s five-point priority program.

First, the intensified anti-smuggling measures have curtailed illicit activities and resulted in the seizure of contrabands 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. While, on March 20, 2023, the BOC confiscated 58.93 kilograms of shabu valued at P400 million at the Pair Cargo Warehouse in Pasay City. Additionally, on May 4, 2023, BOC uncovered around 1,350 kilolitres of smuggled diesel fuel worth P54 million from twelve compartments of the vessel “MV Veronica-1” at the Sub-port of Sual in Pangasinan.

Second, the BOC’s digitalization efforts, rated at 96.39%, have streamlined customs procedures, enhanced trade operations, and improved processing times and accuracy in import and export transactions. Incidentally, World Bank Logistics Performance Index ranks the Philippines 43rd among 139 countries, highlighting advancements in trade facilitation.

Third, 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.

Fourth, active engagement with stakeholders has enhanced BOC’s services through open communication.

Fifth, training programs and incentives have empowered BOC personnel, increasing productivity and contributing to the agency’s outstanding performance.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, BOC continues to exceed expectations through effective strategies in pursuit of its revenue collection, border protection and trade facilitation mandates.#