The Bureau of Customs (BOC) emphasized the importance of vigilantly monitoring and enhancing safety and security measures throughout the global supply chain.

Deputy Commissioner Vener S. Baquiran that improving safety and security measures, however, should be synchronized with the rapid expansion of e-commerce shipments.

“Given the increasing need to ensure that international trade takes place within a safe and secure environment, especially with the rapid increase of e-Commerce shipments, it is also essential for the BOC to continuously steward the national safety and security response within the broader context of the global supply chain,” Baquiran said.

In a bid to promote inclusive economic growth and reduce poverty in the Philippines, the BOC recently organized a three-day National Trade Facilitation Workshop, supported by the International Trade Center (ITC) through the ARISE Plus Philippines Project.

The BOC and ARISE Plus Philippines Workshop commenced with a focused session on “Optimizing the Uptake of the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Program.” 

The session was attended by representatives from several Trade Regulatory Government Agencies  and private sector entities such as Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc., Toyota Motor Philippines Corp., Panasonic Manufacturing Philippines Corp., Export Development Council, and the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc.

“As the BOC explore the paradigm shifts in modernizing customs administration and enhancing trade facilitation, the AEO Program has become a key driver in promoting a secure, transparent and predictable trading environment through the voluntary demonstration of compliance, safety and security provisions in international trade,” Baquiran,  said.

Representing the ITC, Alina Fetisova shared that “It’s important to know that the AEO plays a very important role in ensuring the security of international trade that certified companies adhere to very stringent security standards and thereby safeguarding trade and protect stakeholders.”