The Bureau of Customs (BOC) actively participated in the 16th Session of the Capacity Building Committee (CBC) of the World Customs Organization (WCO), held from February 26–28, 2025, in Brussels, Belgium. Representing the BOC are Atty. Erwin T. Mendoza, Deputy Commissioner of the Internal Administration Group; District Collector Jairus S. Reyes, Port of Clark; Joseph G. Escasio, Head of the Learning and Development Management Office; and Rechilda T. Oquias, Head of the External Affairs Office.

This year’s CBC session focused on the theme “Reimagining the WCO Capacity Building Paradigm – Thriving with Strategic Purpose and Resource Optimization.” Discussions explored key elements of WCO’s evolving capacity-building framework, aligning with broader modernization efforts to optimize resources and enhance strategic positioning.

Key topics included evidence-based technical assistance, the implementation of WCO technical standards, and improving donor coordination for more efficient project execution. Delegates emphasized the need for uniform quality standards in capacity-building initiatives and the role of regional entities as force multipliers. The session also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and data in Customs operations, upskilling professionals for 21st-century challenges, and promoting gender-responsive and inclusive policies.

These initiatives reflect the agency’s support for one of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda of developing a more modernized and responsive governance that will elevate and streamline public service delivery.

Ultimately, the BOC consistently enhances its capacity-building strategies through these engagements and strengthens regional and global collaboration. The insights gained from the session will guide the agency’s ongoing efforts to optimize resources, improve efficiency, foster innovation in line with the best international practices, and uplift employees’ morale through capacity building in line with Commissioner Bienvenido Y Rubio’s 5-Point Priority Program.