The Bureau of Customs (BOC), in cooperation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), renewed its commitment to re-establish the Philippines Customs Laboratory (PCL).

This initiative took place during the five-day program on Capacity Building on Customs Laboratory Processes from June 19 to 23, 2023. The program was jointly organized by KOICA, the Korea International Cooperation Services, Korea Central Customs Laboratory (KCCL), and Korea Customs Service under the International Cooperation Program of the Government of Korea.

Mr. Sanggeum Kim, Assistant Country Director, KOICA, and Director General Jincheol Yang of KCCL and Scientific Service were warmly welcomed by Atty. Yasser Ismail A. Abbas, CESO IV, Director III, Imports and Assessment Service (IAS/AOCG), Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group (AOCG), together with Atty. Christopher M. Inducil, Chief, Valuation and Classification Division (VCD), and various IAS personnel.

During the program, the BOC acknowledged the essential role of PCL in the proper and accurate chemical analysis of products. This analysis helps determine the correct tariff classification and imposable duties on imports, which is ideal for enhancing the collection performance of the BOC. Moreover, PCL will serve as an effective deterrent against technical smuggling through the use of scientific and technical expertise, advanced technology, and intelligence-driven strategies. This will safeguard national security, protect revenue, and ensure public safety. Additionally, it will enhance border security efforts and promote international collaboration, information sharing, and best practices.

Furthermore, the BOC revisited the challenges encountered in re-establishing the PCL, including the lack of facilities and obsolete laboratory equipment. Despite these challenges, the BOC remains steadfast in its commitment to the World Trade Organization Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO-TFA) regarding the re-establishment of the PCL.

Meanwhile, resource experts from the KCCL provided intensive technical training on the operation of a customs laboratory and equipment, including information sharing on best practices. This support aligns with the BOC’s pursuit of establishing a PCL and realizing its vision of becoming a modernized and credible Customs administration that ranks among the world’s best.

“The re-establishment of the Philippines Customs Laboratory is an opportunity to further enhance border security efforts, increase revenue collection, and foster international cooperation in customs practices. This partnership with KOICA will contribute significantly to our vision of a modernized and credible Customs administration,” said Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.#