BoC officer earns international recognition for semiconductor supply research

A Bureau of Customs (BoC) officer has received international recognition for her research on securing and facilitating trusted semiconductor supply chains, the agency announced Sunday.

Rhoan P. Escarmosa, a Customs operations officer assigned to the Port of Manila and the Office of the Commissioner, was awarded one of the Best Research Papers during the Philippine Technology Policy Fellowship.

The initiative was implemented by the Pacific Forum with support from the US Department of State.

Her study, titled “Beyond Border Control: Customs as a Strategic Partner of Trusted Semiconductor Supply Chains in the Philippines,” outlines how customs administration can support strategic industries through trade facilitation, regulatory coordination, and supply chain security.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commended Escarmosa for bringing honor to the agency.

"Her achievement demonstrates that our people have the expertise, insight, and dedication to represent the Philippines well and contribute to important global discussions that impact trade and economic growth," Nepomuceno said.

The research focuses on digital trade systems, risk-based border management, and trusted trader programs to integrate the Philippines more effectively into global technology supply chains.

As part of the fellowship, Escarmosa participated in a two-week study tour in the United States, meeting with officials from the US Department of State, policy institutions, and semiconductor industry leaders.

The BoC said it plans to use the insights gained from the fellowship to guide future policy dialogues and strengthen partnerships with export-oriented technology sectors.