BoC’s 9-month smuggled goods seizures hit P84B

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized a total of P84.36 billion worth of smuggled goods as of 30 November, 2024, according to a report released by the Department of Finance on Friday.

The top seized commodities by type include counterfeit goods, various commodities, cigarettes, e-cigarettes/vape products, vehicles and accessories, and illegal drugs.

Recently, the BOC forfeited 21 containers of seized frozen mackerel worth P178.5 million, which were donated to 150,000 families in marginalized communities to ensure food security for Filipinos.

On 14 December, the President distributed some of the confiscated mackerel to 21,000 households from Barangay 649 in Tondo, Manila, immediately after its inspection.

The BOC achieved a digitalization rate of 97 percent in 2024 through the implementation of three new systems: the Overstaying Cargo Tracking System, the Enhanced e-Travel System, and the ATA Carnet Monitoring System.

From January to November 2024, the BOC disposed of a total of 305 overstaying containers, generating P166.301 million in revenue from the public auction of 146 containers of assorted goods.

Meanwhile, 16 Collection Districts, three sub-ports, and five stand-alone BOC offices were awarded ISO 9001:2015 Certification as of the end of November 2024. This reflects the Bureau’s continued adherence to the stringent quality management standards set by ISO.

As part of its monitoring efforts and post-evaluation of importers and brokers, the BOC revoked the accreditation of 48 importers and customs brokers.

Criminal complaints file

From January to November 2024, the BOC filed a total of 81 criminal complaints against importers and customers for violating provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), resulting in seven criminal convictions.

Additionally, the BOC successfully collected P220.77 billion in taxes under the Fuel Marking Program, marking 18.23 billion liters as of 30 November 2024.

To prevent potential revenue leakage and safeguard against abuse of warehousing privileges, the BOC intensified inspections of Customs Bonded Warehouses and Customs Common Bonded Warehouses, leading to the closure of 14 facilities.

The Bureau also enhanced its detection capabilities with the operation of 75 scanning machines of various types across all international airports nationwide. Furthermore, 34 scanners were distributed across various seaports.

The BOC made progress in fostering collaboration with industry stakeholders by establishing the Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC) in February. The council serves as a vital bridge between the BOC and the business sector to address issues related to Customs and industry matters.

As of 30 November 2024, the Central CICAC had expanded to 59 member organizations, while district-level membership reached 122.