A lawmaker on Tuesday stressed that the Bureau of Customs should hasten its modernization program and full digitalization initiatives to improve its operations and prevent corruption within its ranks.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian said that the agency must invest in high technology such as x-ray machines to prevent incidents of smuggling and should probe their employees that are allegedly linked to inside jobs leading to corruption.

"The BoC should work earnestly to complete its digitalization program, modernize the facilities, and invest in newer technologies, including the purchase of appropriate x-ray machines, and should vigorously pursue an investigation of corrupt employees," said the senator.

Once the bureau will start full automation processes, he said the personal engagements of clients with Customs officers and employees will be reduced and will protection against integrity concerns.

"I earnestly hope for the completion of the agency's modernization program as soon as possible as this will lead to full automation of its operations which will significantly reduce leakages and improve revenue collection," he added.

In response, the BoC reported its implementation of the Philippine Customs Modernization Program is currently at 91 percent of completion and its components include streamlining, automation, and the development of a world-class customs processing system.

Gatchalian said the completion of the BoC modernization program is also expected to expand the country's tax and duty base "without the need to implement additional taxes."