Laoag City, Ilocos Norte — In a momentous ceremony, Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, joined by Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Marcos-Manotoc, unveiled the new Sub-Port of Laoag Office in Laoag International Airport on August 8, 2023. This landmark occasion signifies a significant leap forward in enhancing BOC services within the region.

The Sub-Port of Laoag is the latest addition under the leadership of Port of Aparri Acting District Collector Elenita A. Abaño. The inauguration follows the successful establishment of the Sub-Port of Currimao on August 8, 2022, and the Sub-Port of Irene on February 16, 2023, solidifying the BOC’s unwavering commitment to efficiency and accessibility.

Distinguished attendees included Apayao Governor Elias C. Bulut, Jr., Ilocos Norte Vice-governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, Batac City Mayor Albert D. Chua, Currimao Municipal Mayor Edward Quilala, as well as esteemed representatives from various government agencies and private enterprises. The event was similarly graced by Ronald V. Estabillo, Manager of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines in Laoag International Airport, Reden Velarde, Wyne Marc Rigonan, Jaime Clave, Atty. Carol Lonjawon, Dr. Zaldy Olivas, Julius Imperio, Karol Pascual, and Sarah Santos, who individually and collectively signify their collaborative support.

Expressing her gratitude, Raechelle H. Baviera, BOC Laoag Acting Sub-Port Collector, acknowledged the pro-active and unwavering support of Commissioner Rubio and Acting District Collector Abaño. She further attributed the successful realization of the new office to the dedication and diligence of the entire BOC Aparri workforce.

Acting District Collector Abaño expressed her gratitude to all those who contributed in making the new office a reality, stating, “My heart is filled with mixed emotions, from previously being situated in a town house three kilometers from the airport, I am joyful that finally, for the first time, during my time as BOC Aparri’s Acting District Collector, the Sub-Port of Laoag already has an office within the airport,” Abaño said.

As a native of Ilocos Norte, Commissioner Rubio expressed his deep honor in bringing BOC’s services closer to the Ilocano People. “Apart from expanding our operations to this location in furtherance of bolstering economic growth in the region, we likewise aim to provide a comfortable environment and secure workplace for our customs officers,” Commissioner Rubio said.

The inauguration of the Sub-Port of Laoag office marks a momentous stride towards streamlined and client-centered BOC services. As the BOC continues to shape its path towards efficiency and accessibility, this new office stands as a symbol of progress, underlining the commitment of the BOC in serving the needs of the community.#