By Betheena Unite The Bureau of Customs (BOC) debunked claims Monday that certain ports or warehouses under it have been preventing the release of essential medical supplies and equipment amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. “The BOC clarifies that there is no such incident at any of its ports or warehouses,” the bureau said in a statement Monday, denying claims that it has been “holding and delaying the release of medical supplies and equipment.” With this, the bureau assured the public that “the processing of shipments containing medical supplies and relief goods are being done expeditiously especially during this time of emergency.” The Customs Assistance Desk had been established to expedite the clearance and immediate release of said shipments, the agency further said. It was also emphasized that the bureau has ordered the prompt distribution of donated facemasks to frontline personnel nationwide. Some of these facemasks were donated by the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) and the Philippine Red Cross (PRC). Importers were also urged to provide detailed advance information of importations of emergency medical supplies so that they can be expeditiously processed and reminded to secure the needed importation permits and clearances required by regulatory agencies prior to importation. Meanwhile, cleaning and disinfecting activities in Customs facilities and ports nationwide has been ordered. The Customs main office at the Port of Manila was disinfected over the weekend to ensure that the compound is safe for customs personnel and stakeholders. All district collectors, service directors and division chiefs were reminded to take the necessary precaution in conducting their day-to-day activities.