The Bureau of Customs (BOC), Institute for Solidarity in Asia (ISA), and the BOC-Multi Sector Governance Council (MSGC) convened on May 31, 2022 at the Dusit Thani Hotel, Makati City, Manila for the ISA Conferment Ceremony and BOC-MSGC Fellowship 2022.

In June 2019, the BOC, headed by Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, enrolled to the 4-stage performance governance system (PGS) pathway of the ISA in pursuit of transforming and reforming its processes and services. Throughout the years, the BOC and Commissioner Guerrero built a new foundation of trust and awareness through reformed efforts, in creating a customs administration at par with the global standards.

On April 20, 2022, the BOC passed the fourth and final stage of the PGS pathway – Institutionalization Stage with a GOLD Governance Trailblazer award. The BOC consistently bagged the highest awards as it passed the 1st stage to the 4th stage.

“This milestone couldn’t have been possible without the bold conviction of Commissioner Guerrero. I would also like to applaud the good people of the Bureau and their commitment to their work that has contributed greatly to bringing the BOC to where it is today. This recognition is only the beginning, but this shall catapult the BOC to greater heights for the institution and the nation as a whole. Along with every Filipino, I eagerly await what more the BOC can achieve for our Dream Philippines.” Vice Chairman Drilon II stated in behalf of Chairman Francisco Del Rosario, during the conferment of the ISA to the Bureau of Customs of the Gold Governance Trailblazer Award and recognition as Island of Good Governance.

“On behalf of the hard-working and professional men and women of the Bureau of Customs, I am happy to accept the conferment of Institutionalization Status and Gold Trailblazer Award. These trophies represent the cumulative work and collective spirit of the entire BOC family as we took step after step in this journey of transformation.” Commissioner Guerrero responded as he delivered his acceptance message and response.

Furthermore, Plaques of Appreciation and Commendation were also given by the Bureau of Customs to the Institute for Solidarity in Asia and Multi-Sector Governance Council in recognition of the invaluable guidance, support , and expertise, respectively, to the transformation journey of the BOC.

In attendance were Former Secretary Dr. Jesus P. Estanislao, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of ISA, Mr. Rex C. Drilon II, Vice Chairman of the ISA Board of Trustees, Gen. Emmanuel T. Bautista, ISA Trustee, Mr. Leonardo Jose M. Berba, Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Donald Patrick Lim, Vice President of the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), MSGC Members – Hon. Congresswoman Sharon Garin, Atty. Frederico Pascual, Bishop Noel Pantoja, Mr. Nathaniel Kinsella Jr., Mr. Michael Kurt Raeuber, and Mr. Rommel Gavieta.

For the part of BOC, the delegation was led by Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, with the Deputy Commissioners, District Collectors, and other officials and personnel.

“The transformation journey is not done, as we know full well. There are standards to maintain and new innovations to implement, incisive strategies to be crafted and dynamic partnerships to be expanded. Let these milestones be our inspiration and our motivation to do more, to be better and to serve with honor, integrity and excellence.”