The Port of Limay has reached another milestone in enhancing its services to the Bureau and its clients, having proudly attained the prestigious ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification, DAILY TRIBUNE learned Thursday.

District Collector Atty. Kriden F. Balgomera of the Port of Limay emphasized that "this milestone underscores the port's dedication to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and global quality standards."

This achievement ensures that all Bureau of Customs (BOC) ports are now ISO-certified by the year's end.

The certification audit was conducted by TÜV SÜD, supported by the Interim Internal Quality Management System Office (I|QMSO), led by Ms. Gladys Cabugawan, under the leadership of District Collector Balgomera.

“The Port of Limay proudly attained ISO certification, joining the ranks of other ISO-certified ports under the Bureau of Customs,” said Balgomera.

Under Atty. Balgomera's leadership, the Port of Limay has embraced modernization, improving its services through digitalization, innovation, and various modernization programs.

ISO (International Organization for Standardization) is a global federation of national standards bodies. It is a nongovernmental organization comprising standards bodies from more than 160 countries, with one standards body representing each member country.

Balgomera noted that managing a large government bureau like the Port of Limay is a critical and challenging responsibility.

“Management is a critical factor, particularly in policing and all documentation processes in the bureau, regardless of who the clients are. At the end of the day, I am ultimately accountable for what happens here,” explained Atty. Balgomera.

During his tenure, Collector Balgomera has initiated various improvements in the port, focusing on modernization and transparency, in line with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s programs.

Recently, Commissioner Rubio was recognized at the prestigious ASIA Leaders Awards on 28 November 2024 for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to public service. He was awarded the title “Man of the Year in Public Service,” highlighting his transformative initiatives that have elevated the BOC's efficiency and fiscal success.

This recognition underscores the impact of Commissioner Rubio’s five-point priority program, particularly the digitalization of 96.99% of customs processes, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and transparency.

Under his leadership, the BOC achieved a historic revenue collection of PhP883.624 billion, demonstrating the agency’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and technological advancement.

Commissioner Rubio expressed his gratitude to the entire BOC workforce, stating: “This recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to the men and women of the Bureau of Customs—the backbone of our institution. It is their collective commitment to public service that brings honor to our agency, and I humbly accept this award on their behalf,” reflecting his appreciation for the hardworking individuals within the BOC and his belief in collective success.