Days of customs ‘VIP’ numbered

The suki or patronage system in the processing of imported goods may soon be a thing of the past with the Bureau of Customs (BoC) rolling out in August its enhanced Goods Declaration Verification System (eGDVS) called “1-Assessment.”

The system will ensure lesser human intervention on transactions between stakeholders and customs personnel, thus reducing opportunities for corruption, according to Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña.

Under the new set-up, the sectioning at the Formal Entry Division or FED was limited along with the need for face-to-face transactions when processing of imported goods on a first-in, first-out basis.

“This time, no more “VIPs” in goods declaration. If everything is in order and you have your documents ready, then nothing prevents you from lodging your entries. We are leveling the playing field for all legitimate importers,” Lapeña said.

The BoC chief emphasized the opportunity for collusion among clients or stakeholders, customs appraisers and examiners will be lessened with the random selection of appraisers and examiners.

“1-Assessment” will be rolled-out by the Management Information System and Technology Group (MISTG) on August 2, initially covering the ports of Subic, Clark, and Batangas.

Lapeña sees the bureau-wide roll-out and full implementation of the “1-Assessment” system in all ports before the year ends.

“1-Assessment” improves upon the original GDVS which was first introduced in the Port of Manila and the Manila International Container Port under Customs Memorandum Order 31-2017.

The improved system is a web-based application workflow designed to combat red tape and promote transparency and efficiency in the delivery of customs services.

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