SUBIC BAY FREEPORT, Zambales – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Port of Subic uses internet–based technology to continue and effectively conduct valuation and classification proceedings on import cargoes amid the danger of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic.
This, as BOC-Financial Service reported that Port of Subic is among the nine of the 17 collection districts that exceeded their target last month.
Its collections amounted to nearly PHP2.4 billion, an increase of PHP453.4 million or 22.12 percent against the port's assigned target of PHP2.05 billion for August.
The BOC consistently and positively surpassed monthly collections for the third month since June 2020.
This August, BOC collected PHP44.631 billion, which is 32.53 percent or PHP10.956 billion higher than its target of PHP33.675 billion.
Port of Subic Customs Collector Maritess Martin said on Friday that Customs personnel subject each shipment of imported goods to rigid inspections upon entry to the Port.
When BOC finds discrepancies between the documents presented and actual contents of the shipment, legal case proceedings ensue.
Martin said the government prohibits the conduct of face-to-face conferences while the danger of Covid-19 infection remains.
However, the Valuation and Classification Review Committee (VCRC) and Seizure Case Proceedings cannot be delayed.
To comply with the government health protocols, the Port of Subic utilizes internet application Zoom in conducting VCRC and Seizure Cases Proceedings the "new normal" way, Martin said.
Zoom provides video-telephony and chat services popularly used for teleconferencing, webinars, or on-line learning strategy.
BOC's pilot proceedings via Zoom was the case of a 1x40' container van declared to contain frozen chimei mixed croissants, but after examination, various kinds of vegetables were found instead.
The BOC seized the shipment for misdeclaration.
The Bureau, also heard several VCRC cases to determine the actual values to be applied for the subject shipments.
“The Port of Subic ensures that its operations will remain unhampered even by our present situation,” Martin said.
Earlier, Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero commended the collective efforts of the district collectors and the men and women of the BOC who, despite the risk to their health and safety, showed their unwavering commitment and dedication to service. (PNA)
