President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday lauded the accomplishments of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and commended its officials and employees during its 121st Founding Anniversary Celebration.
Speaking through Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno during the event, the President said that BOC’s more than P862 billion revenue collection, 34 percent higher than the P643 billion it collected in 2021, was “commendable.”
“In fact, I note that all your collection districts have surpassed their individual revenue targets in 2022, which enabled the Bureau to exceed your annual target for the year,” he said.
Last year, the BOC posted its highest revenue collection in history, enabling local governments to generate more employment opportunities, build more infrastructure, and provide better welfare support for the people.
Aside from the improved collection performance, the President highlighted the Bureau’s gains in protecting the country’s borders.
“In 2022, the Bureau of Customs’ Anti-Smuggling Campaign has recorded 729 apprehensions with a total estimated value of more than 24 billion pesos, which I hope you will further sustain and toughen in the years ahead,” he said.
“I am thus very pleased as we recognize these and all the other achievements of the Bureau of Customs,” he added.
Aligned with the President’s socioeconomic agenda, Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz continues to expedite the BOC digitalization program to provide transparent and efficient services while curbing corruption and increasing lawful revenue collection.
Ruiz has also enforced reforms to sustain the positive performance of the Bureau, as manifested by surpassing the collection target for January 2023, and to enhance its operational processes. He said that working at the BOC was a noble mission.
The President vowed to continue his unwavering support for the BOC and the reforms being undertaken by its leadership.
“Rest assured that this administration will give you its unreserved support for the realization of your vision to achieve a modernized and credible Customs administration through enhanced trade facilitation, strengthened border controls, and improved collection of lawful revenues,” the President said.#
