PICC, Pasay City
February 7, 2025
“Throughout its 123-year history, the Bureau of Customs [BOC] has never had an easy time. Various controversies and corruption allegations have eroded the public’s trust… But we are changing that. We will allow your accomplishments to speak for themselves,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remarked, emphasizing that the BOC has relentlessly pursued its commitment to strengthen border control, enhance trade facilitation and improve the collection of lawful revenues.
During the BOC’s anniversary celebration in Pasay City, President Marcos Jr. proudly announced in his keynote address that in December 2024, the Agency has achieved a 96.99% digitalization rate, with 161 out of 166 customs processes now digital — a move that successfully closed the gaps that once provided avenues for corruption.
The digital platforms, including the Overstaying Cargo Tracking System, Enhanced Electronic Travel (e-Travel) System and the ATA Carnet or “Passport for Goods” Monitoring System, have helped safeguard against inefficiency.
“Ibig sabihin nito ay maiiwasan ang pagkaantala ng mga kargamento sa mga pantalan na nakakadagdag sa hidden cost. Sa pamamagitan ng mga ito, mas magiging maayos at mabilis ang pagdaloy ng mga produkto sa mga pantalan at paliparan. Makakatipid ang mga negosyante natin ng oras at ng kanilang ginagastos upang maging mas produktibo sa ibang gawain,” he said.
Notably in 2024, the BOC collected over PhP931 billion, around PhP40 billion higher than the PhP890.446 billion collected in 2023. These collections can fund over 7,500 train cars, more than 18.6 million laptops or around 62 million tablets for schoolchildren, or approximately 7.7 million scholarships for university students.
“Apart from collecting revenue, the BOC continues to safeguard our borders against exploitation… Those encompassed large seizures of illegal vape products, counterfeit items, [and] unlawful fuel shipments. This will allow our businesses to compete more fairly in the market, and our consumers to enjoy more competitive prices, [and] our people will save money in the long run,” he added.
Moreover, the Chief Executive emphasized that the Bureau has been involved in the government’s efforts to stop agricultural smuggling, protect local farmers and ensure that illicit agricultural products do not circulate in the market.
He also recognized the recipients of the Leadership Awards for their exemplary work in support of the BOC’s objectives in advancing the country’s economy and security. He stressed that their skills are essential for gaining the public’s confidence in the BOC, which led to greater compliance with tax regulations and better utilization of taxpayers’ money.
“Sa lahat ng opisyal, inspektor, at kawani ng BOC: Lagi ninyong unahin ang kapakanan ng sambayanan. Gampanan ninyo ang inyong tungkulin ng buong katapatan at may malasakit sa inyong kapwa Pilipino… Nakabantay ang buong bayan. Kaya naman, patuloy tayong magsusumikap para sa minimithing landas patungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” President Marcos Jr. concluded his speech.
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