The Bureau of Customs (BOC), the government's second-largest tax agency, is counting on its Five-Point Priority Program (5-PPP) to drive efficiency, boost revenues, and ensure trade security this year.
In statement released on Jan. 7, the BOC’s 5-PPP focuses on surpassing revenues, full digitalization, simplified trade processes, curbing smuggling, and enhancing employee welfare
After successfully automating 96.99 percent of its procedures in 2023, the BOC plans to complete the automation this year.
BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said this initiative will enhance operational efficiency and transparency while minimizing corruption risks.
Customs also aims to exceed its revenue targets, setting a goal of P1.06 trillion for this year after collecting a record P883.624 billion in 2023, a 2.46 percent increase from the previous year.
Rubio is upbeat on achieving this target “through strengthened collection measures and collective effort.”
Likewise, the agency aims to simplify procedures and align with global standards to make it easier for businesses to comply with customs regulations while ensuring trade security. This initiative, according to Rubio, could promote economic growth.
“Curbing smuggling remains a critical priority for the Bureau,” the BOC said, adding intensified operations against smuggling could “protect the nation’s borders and economic interests, safeguarding the integrity of its trade systems.”
Ultimately, the BOC is investing heavily in enhancing employee welfare and professional development. The agency acknowledges its workforce as essential and is committed to supporting their growth and improving their working conditions.
“This 2025, let us set an even higher standard for ourselves and the Bureau of Customs,” Rubio concluded, stressing the value of “professionalism, integrity, excellence, and accountability in achieving these [5-PPP] goals.”