The Bureau of Customs has completed the construction of a new sub-port building at the Mindanao Container Terminal (MCT) in Misamis Oriental, aimed at bolstering revenue collection and improving services for stakeholders.

Located within the Phividec Industrial Estate in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental, the new facility will serve as the headquarters for several frontline offices of the bureau operating at MCT. 

These offices include the Customer Care Center, Sub-port Collector's Office, Assessment Division, Operations Division, Export Division, Piers and Inspection Division, and other key departments. 

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said the bureau aims to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and provide better services to stakeholders by centralizing these offices under one roof.

The MCT sub-port plays a vital role in revenue collection, accounting for a significant 51 percent of the total revenue generated by Customs Collection District X, also known as the Port of Cagayan de Oro. 

Rubio said he is optimistic about the new building's potential to further improve revenue collection at the sub-port.

He, meanwhile, commended the Port of Cagayan de Oro personnel, led by Alexandra Y. Lumontad, for their dedication to fulfilling the bureau's mandates of revenue collection, trade facilitation, and border protection.

He said their contributions have been instrumental in the port's success.

The Phivedic Industrial Authority (PIA) has also strengthened its partnership with Customs by donating a 5,000-square-meter lot within the Phividec Industrial Estate.

"May it inspire you to reach greater heights, and may the bonds formed within these walls become a source of strength for the years to come,” Bernedo said.

With Cagayan de Oro and Misamis Oriental serving as crucial gateways, Customs has strategically positioned itself to cater to the growing economy of Northern Mindanao. (Gabriell Christel Galang)