The Makati Business Club (MBC) and the Bureau of Customs (BoC) recently met to review the BoC’s digitization roadmap, reaffirming several priority areas for accelerated implementation.

BoC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and MBC Executive Director Rafael Ongpin underscored the importance of public–private cooperation in modernizing customs processes and improving trade facilitation through key digital initiatives, aligning next steps on systems enhancement and collaborative reforms to further streamline customs operations.

Among the priority initiatives discussed were the modernization of the Customs Payment System, automation of assessment processes, integration of X-ray scanning capabilities, enhancements to public-facing importer platforms, and upgrades to support real-time processing of transactions.

Both parties emphasized the need for systems that are transparent, user-friendly, and responsive to the evolving needs of the trading community.

The MBC expressed strong support for the Bureau’s modernization efforts and committed to assisting in the drafting and refinement of Terms of Reference (TORs) for major ICT procurements. The technical support aims to strengthen system requirements, ensure interoperability, and promote transparency and accountability in procurement processes.

To institutionalize the partnership, the BoC affirmed the formation of a joint Technical Working Group (TWG) that will work with the MBC in formulating TORs for the Customs Revenue System and other critical digital infrastructure.

The BoC also reiterated its commitment to advancing the modernization of the Customs Payment System, enhancing automation across platforms, improving real-time processing capabilities, and updating the BOC Citizens’ Charter to reflect ongoing process improvements. The agency likewise committed to reviewing TORs for X-ray system procurement and evaluating emerging technologies such as blockchain-based applications to reinforce customs processes.

Officials described the collaborative actions as a forward-looking approach to ensure the Bureau’s digital transformation keeps pace with global best practices and national economic priorities.

“The Bureau of Customs recognizes the vital role of our private sector partners in shaping reforms that truly respond to the needs of trade and industry. Our engagement with the Makati Business Club reinforces our shared mission to modernize customs operations and build a predictable, transparent, and service-oriented environment,” Nepomuceno said.