Our goal: a modernized customs administration at par with global standards

To reach this goal, the BOC undertakes the Philippine Customs Modernization Program or PCMP, with the support provided by the World Bank Group

With major components and innovations, the PCMP aims to streamline operations and processes and support the reform agenda by upgrading BOC systems, procedures, and operational activities.

Among these innovations is the Customs Processing System (CPS). It serves as one single and unified system that combines all the key elements and customs procedures.

The CPS combines the features and functionalities of the currently implemented E2M customs module and adds features that facilitate business continuity under on optimized. This makes for an efficient and ready BOC that can trade and operate in the face of any restriction or eventuality, such as the present conditions under the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CPS’ new operating model focuses on a Risk-Based Compliance Management environment. As part of the modernization efforts, this component supports the adoption of a more sophisticated risk management and cargo targeting capability, together with modernized non-intrusive inspection services that provide the detection and control capability

The CPS’ new operating model focuses on a Risk-Based Compliance Management environment. Utilizing

Remote Image Analysis Centers (RIACs), a combination of hardware and software, this allows BOC to receive and interpret radioscopic images sent from operational scanner sites in real-time. It also means that the BOC can analyze X-ray images and improve detection capabilities for increased efficiency and faster inspections of shipments.

The RIACs are fully integrated into the CPS, allowing BOC to leverage its modern risk management functions for more effective targeting, and strengthen BOC’s capability to effectively manage and operate its modern non-intrusive inspection technology and processes. The remote image capability inspection also boosts the BOC’s anti-corruption efforts as it eliminates face-to-face interaction between traders and officials examining radiographic images. The improvement in the process also impacts positively on the conduct of non-intrusive inspections both at the piers and airports where x-ray equipment are deployed.

The State-of-the-Art Data Center has the infrastructure required to run ICT solutions and bring new and improved network connectivity to BOC offices nationwide, eliminating downtime and providing disaster recovery.

Finally, another core component of the Philippine Customs Modernization Project is the Organizational modernization. With new ICT systems in place, functional and organizational realignments will be implemented, to ensure that the institutional structure responds to new responsibilities, additional jobs for high-value functions such as risk management, intelligence, and post-clearance audit. Training and skills enhancement programs will be implemented on a continuing basis for employees to adapt to new jobs and responsibilities.

The organizational modernization will impact on all the back-office and administrative systems. The PCMP also provides for the appointment of a turn-key supplier to develop the Administrative Back-office Enterprise Resource Planning System (ABERP). This covers human resource systems to manage staffing growth for career planning of a professional workforce, including case management and an assets management solution that can support all core productive assets of BOC.

From a largely manual and paper-based organization with most resources deployed around cargo control, declaration, assessment, and inspections, the modernized Bureau of Customs envisions to deploy its resources to value-added activities such as registration, targeting, and audit.

Our goal to modernize and achieve global standards is made possible through the PCMP and the support of the World Bank.

The target is to achieve full modernization by 2024. With teamwork, determination and discipline, the service we render will be better for our country and our people.