The Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) is hosting the World Customs Organization (WCO) Leadership and Management Development (LMD) workshop from June 5 to June 16, 2023, in Manila. The event, graced by Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, brings together key officers from the Bureau of Customs to enhance their leadership and management skills.

The WCO LMD workshop, funded by the Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme, is a pivotal initiative aimed at modernizing the management culture within the Bureau of Customs. It seeks to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively achieve the organization’s vision and deliver on its strategic objectives, while upholding its core values. The Accelerate Trade Facilitation Programme is a partnership between UK Customs His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, the WCO and UNCTAD that aims at supporting partner countries to effectively implement the provisions of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), by using WCO international standards and tools and sharing best practices.

The workshop is being delivered by Ms. Aarti Saxena, WCO Expert in LMD, from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) of India, and Ms. Maria Morrissey, WCO Expert in LMD, Revenue Tax & Customs Ireland.

During the two-week program, participants will engage in a variety of interactive workshops, training sessions, and discussions, all centered around the philosophy of knowing oneself, managing oneself, understanding others, and having a positive impact on others. These sessions will provide a holistic approach to leadership development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, in his opening remarks, expressed his gratitude to the World Customs Organization for their continued support and emphasized the significance of the LMD Programme in fostering a more efficient and effective Bureau of Customs. He highlighted the role of leadership in customs administration and encouraged participants to fully engage in the program, leveraging this opportunity to enhance their skills and contribute to the growth of the organization.

The WCO LMD Programme signifies a major step forward for the Bureau of Customs as it strives to strengthen its position as a leading force in customs administration. By investing in the professional development of its key officers, the Bureau aims to elevate its capabilities, ensuring the safety, security, and facilitation of international trade.

The ongoing event in Manila is a testament to the Bureau of Customs’ commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. It is an opportunity for participants to network, exchange best practices, and learn from international customs experts, fostering greater cooperation and collaboration within the global customs community.#