Customs Hits Collection Target for 2024

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Philippines has announced that it exceeded its collection target for 2023, surpassing the PHP 901 billion goal. The BOC spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip Maronilla, shared this information during a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing. The agency not only met its target but also achieved a surplus of over PHP 10 billion.

Maronilla attributed this success to several factors. Firstly, the BOC streamlined its processes and improved revenue collection efficiency. By identifying and addressing loopholes through scientific methods, involving collaboration with private sector representatives such as the Ateneo School of Government and stakeholders, they enhanced their overall operations.

Major ports played a crucial role in meeting and surpassing the collection target. The Manila International Container Port alone contributed 50% of the collection, with 30% of the volume and target collection coming from there. Other significant contributors included the Batangas Port (25% of the collection) and the Port of Manila (18-20% of the collection). Additionally, various other major ports, including those in Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, Subic, Clark, Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Legazpi, Tacloban, Iloilo, and San Fernando, also contributed to the high collection figures.

Looking ahead, Maronilla expressed confidence in achieving the PHP 1 trillion target collection for 2024. The BOC aims to continue improving revenue efficiency and processes to attract more businesses and investors, potentially surpassing the set target.

In terms of digitalization, Maronilla reported that 99% of the bureau’s processes are now digitized. However, there are still entities struggling to interlink their systems with the BOC. The goal for 2024 is to integrate these processes to create a cohesive and streamlined system for implementing improvements. (ASC)