The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has partnered with the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPOST) for the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). This initiative aims to intensify efforts to enhance trade facilitation programs, focusing on improving the speed, security, and quality of customs clearance for postal items.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio and PHLPOST Postmaster General Luis Carlos, together with Assistant Secretary for Digital Philippines and E-Commerce Lead of the Department of Trade and Industry, Mary Jean T. Pacheco, and other key officials from the BOC and PHLPost, led the ceremonial signing on October 18, 2023, in Paranaque City, coinciding with the Port of NAIA’s anniversary celebration.

The MOA signing signifies the collective commitment of BOC and PHLPOST to enhance trade facilitation programs for importers and stakeholders. The agreement is poised to expedite clearance, enhance security measures, improve compliance with international customs and postal standards, and streamline processes for smoother trade operations.

The agreement defines the relationship and delineates the functions of PHLPOST and BOC in handling, inspecting, examining, appraising, and collecting customs duties, taxes, and other import charges, covering the entire spectrum of processes from receipt and processing to the disposal of postal items.

The MOA emphasizes the shared commitment of BOC and PHLPOST to combat offenses and violations of customs laws, addressing the transport of illicit materials, drugs, counterfeit goods, contraband, and money laundering activities that threaten the economic, social, fiscal, and security interests of the Philippines.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio conveyed a message of commitment, emphasizing the crucial recognition of multisectoral cooperation between the two government agencies, considering the emergence of e-commerce and digital services. “Rest assured the BOC will remain your partner in ensuring obligations under this Agreement are met and efficiently performed through our mutual and continued support,” said Commissioner Rubio.