The Bureau of Customs announced the creation of an advisory council that will engage all stakeholders, like the private sector, in formulating strategies for the government’s second largest tax agency. In a statement on Monday, March 20, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said the advisory council will be the official forum for communications and consultations between the bureau and the business community. Among its functions, Rubio said is to assist the commissioner in delivering “excellent” customs policies and services as well as identify obstacles in trade facilitation that result in delays and unnecessary costs. "We believe that by bringing together various stakeholders to form an industry-wide advisory council, we will be able to develop even more relevant policies that respond to our present needs," Rubio said. He said placing the feedback and evaluation of partners and stakeholders will be at the core of his plans of action, noting that inclusivity will a catalyst in obtaining effective solutions. Last Friday, Rubio gathered the stakeholders of the bureau to recognize their contributions to the agency and present his five priority programs. Rubio said the will prioritize the digitalization of Customs processes, hit and surpass their collection target, simplify procedures and facilitate secure trade, curb smuggling in all forms, and uplift employee welfare and development. “The Five-Point Priority Program is the testament of our commitment to improving efficiency, upgrading systems and processes, and promoting integrity and professionalism,” Rubio. said. Meanwhile, Customs has awarded its 2022 top importers. Among those recognized were Petron Corp., Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp., Toyota Motor Philippines Corp., Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc., Seaoil Philippines Inc., among others. Rubio also reported that the bureau surpassed its collection target from January to mid-March 2023. As of March 13, Customs collected P166.973 billion, higher by nine percent against its P153.02 billion goal for the period. Of that amount, P68.6 billion was garnered in the first month of Rubio's term. Following the higher than expected collection performance, Finance Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno expressed his support to the bureau. "I believe Commissioner Rubio has perfectly captured in his presentation the depth and breadth of the Bureau’s achievements, plans, and programs to help us sustain these gains," Diokno said. ”I challenge the Bureau of Customs to set a fresh vision and even loftier targets. I believe that you have what it takes to become a modern and world-class institution," he added.