(This article is part of a special PortCalls supplement for the Bureau of Customs’ 124th anniversary.)
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) accelerated trade facilitation efforts in 2025 by strengthening digital customs services, streamlining policies, and deepening collaboration with stakeholders to ensure faster, more predictable, and transparent clearance of goods across ports of entry.
Upgrading Digital Tools for Faster Trade
Central to these efforts was the BOC’s push for digitalization. The Bureau introduced the upgraded Online Tax Estimator, a more intuitive, web-based tool that helps importers anticipate duties and taxes with greater accuracy, even before lodging declarations. The BOC also launched the Origin Management System (OMS), which automates the issuance and processing of the Product Evaluation Report (PER), a mandatory document for goods intended for export under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), reducing processing times and promoting export competitiveness.
To strengthen regional interoperability, the BOC also implemented the ASEAN Electronic Document Exchange, enabling faster cross-border verification of trade documents and ensuring regional interoperability. In addition, the agency proposed the integration of the Automated Export Declarations System (AEDS) across economic zones to support the future digitization of export submissions, with the potential to reduce errors and strengthen compliance.
The Bureau further improved processing for strategic and export-related goods through critical operational upgrades, including the streamlined clearance of aircraft parts at Clark International Airport and the full rollout of the electronic Certificate of Origin (e-CO) portal.
Reducing Trade Barriers through Policy Reforms
Alongside digital reforms, policy improvements in 2025 reinforced predictability and reduced administrative burdens for traders. Importer accreditation validity was extended from one year to three years, allowing companies to plan operations with confidence and enabling BOC to focus on risk-based monitoring.
Nationwide standardization of off-dock tariffs strengthened transparency and consistency in logistics costs. Clearance procedures for cross-border e-commerce goods were also streamlined to improve online trade efficiency.
Measures such as the temporary suspension of routine Green Lane scanning at airports and the effective implementation of a 60-day rice import suspension demonstrated the Bureau’s calibrated approach in balancing facilitation, border security, and market stability.
Digitizing Service Delivery
The BOC likewise enhanced service delivery through the Enhanced Tax Exemption System Lite (e-TES Lite), further digitizing the filing and processing of tax and duty exemption applications.
To expand trust-based facilitation, the BOC strengthened its engagement with compliant traders through the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) and Super Green Lane (SGL) programs.
In 2025, eleven (11) companies were formally accredited under the AEO program, including Sony Philippines, Coca-Cola Europacific, Toyota Motor Philippines, Brother’s Industries, and Aboitiz Philippines, among others. Meanwhile, SGL membership grew to 273, continuing the Bureau’s efforts to reward low-risk traders through expedited customs processing and improved supply chain efficiency.
Amplifying Modernization Through Partnerships
Strategic partnerships further amplified the impact of BOC’s modernization initiatives. Collaborations with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and Makati Business Club (MBC) supported technical guidance and the co-design of key digital upgrades.
Agreements with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) helped optimize customs operations within the freeport. Consultations with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FFCCCII) and the US-ASEAN Business Council strengthened the agency’s adherence with global best practices and improved the trade environment for investors and industries.
The Bureau also strengthened interagency coordination, including engagement with the Strategic Trade Management Office (STMO) and investment promotion agencies, to ensure seamless regulation of dual-use and strategic goods.
Improving Performance Through Data-Driven Reforms
In support of evidence-based improvements, the BOC advanced reforms through the National Time Release Study (TRS) developed with the World Customs Organization (WCO).
The TRS enables the Bureau to identify bottlenecks, reduce cargo clearance times, and implement targeted interventions across processes and ports.
Reform momentum was further supported by initiatives from ARISE Plus Philippines and the DIGIPINAS project, strengthening e-commerce processing and supporting enhanced digital risk assessment for cross-border goods.
Gaining Regional Recognition for Trade Efficiency
These efforts contributed to the Philippines’ strong regional performance, with the country ranking second in ASEAN in the 2025 UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation, reflecting measurable gains in efficiency, transparency, and modernization.
Driving Fairer, Faster, and Transparent Trade
“The reforms we have implemented reflect our commitment to making trade faster, fairer, and more transparent, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision for a more competitive Philippine economy,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said. “By leveraging digital tools, clear policies, and strong partnerships, we are ensuring that businesses can operate with predictability while safeguarding national interests,” he added.
By advancing innovation, strengthening policies, and fostering collaboration, the BOC continues to make trade faster, fairer, and more accessible—supporting consumers, businesses, and overall economic growth.
Read the full PortCalls supplement here.
