BOC assures fast-tracked release of medical devices

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said it will expedite release of imported ventilators, respirators, accessories and other medical health devices that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified as essentials in responding to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak.

Importers of ventilators, respirators and their respective accessories which are imported for commercial purposes need only present copies of their License to Operate (LTO).

BOC said it has been prioritizing and fast-tracking the release of imported personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies since the country was placed under a state of calamity due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Importations of PPEs for commercial purposes will be exempted from presentation of a Certificate of Product Notification or Certificate of Product Registration prior to customs release provided importers provide a copy of the LTO and proof of application of product notification with the FDA.

Earlier, too, BOC said foreign donations of PPE such as face masks, shoe covers, gloves, head covers and gowns are exempted from having to secure FDA clearance prior to customs release.

READ: BOC, FDA ease PPE import requirements

Moreover, other medical device establishments that use face masks in the performance of their duties and strictly for company use are allowed to make direct importation without any certification from the FDA.

Aside from this, BOC earlier said it is already allowing provisional goods declaration for imported donations.