The Bureau of Customs (BOC), led by Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, convened with the World Customs Organization (WCO) for a multi-year Mercator partnership and risk management stocktaking session funded by the His Majesty Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The meeting attended by representatives from the Risk Management Office, External Affairs Office, and key Bureau officials, underscore the commitment to fortify risk management practices within the customs domain.

The discussions stressed the importance of effective risk management, which is recognized as the bedrock strategy for fulfilling the mandates of the BOC. Experts emphasized the significance of maintaining a responsive and efficient risk management system to address evolving challenges and enhance operational efficacy.

The collaboration between the BOC, WCO, and HRMC signifies a concerted effort to leverage international expertise and best practices in bolstering risk management frameworks. Through shared insights and collaborative initiatives, both entities aim to further strengthen customs operations and ensure the integrity and security of cross-border trade.

The WCO representatives commended the BOC for its proactive approach in hosting the meeting and expressed appreciation for the bureau’s enthusiasm in advancing the development of risk management practices.

As the meeting ended, Commissioner Rubio emphasized that: “We acknowledge the need for a holistic approach to effective risk management, which entails a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities by every office and officer,” and reaffirmed the BOC’s commitment for continuous improvement and innovation in customs administration.