MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Makati Business Club (MBC) recently met to align next steps on key modernization initiatives, focusing on digitalization, systems enhancement, and collaborative reform efforts aimed at streamlining customs operations.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno and MBC Executive Director Rafael Ongpin both underscored the importance of public–private cooperation in modernizing customs processes and strengthening trade facilitation.

During the meeting, the BOC and MBC reviewed the Bureau’s digitalization roadmap and reaffirmed several priority areas for accelerated rollout. These include the modernization of the Customs Payment System (CPS), automation of assessment processes, integration of X-ray scanning capabilities, improvements to importer-facing platforms, and upgrades that will enhance real-time processing of transactions. Both sides 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 BOC’s modernization drive and committed to assist in drafting and refining Terms of Reference (TORs) for major ICT procurements. The Bureau confirmed the creation of a joint Technical Working Group (TWG) that will work with MBC in developing TORs for the Customs Revenue System (CRS) and other critical digital infrastructure.

To sustain reform momentum, the BOC reiterated its commitment to advance the modernization of the CPS, expand automation across platforms, improve real-time processing capabilities, and update the BOC Citizen’s Charter to reflect ongoing process improvements. The Bureau also committed to review TORs for X-ray system procurement and explore technologies such as blockchain-based applications to further strengthen customs processes.

The meeting also gathered private sector representatives who have been supporting the BOC’s digitalization efforts, including Atty. Mimi Lopez-Malvar of Procter & Gamble; Hiren Mirchandani of Ramesh Trading; Atty. Carlo Valerio of Cruz Marcelo & Tenefrancia; Atty. JJ Ocaña of Schneider Electric; Phillip Fullon of Shopee; and Geeta Keswani of the Makati Business Club. BOC Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip C. Maronilla also attended.

Commissioner Nepomuceno highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration, saying, “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.”

The Bureau reaffirmed its commitment to the digitalization priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration, noting that continued partnership with groups such as the Makati Business Club supports its push for a modern, secure, and globally competitive customs administration anchored on integrity, innovation, and improved public service.