The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is setting its sights on a transformative 2025, anchored in its Five-Point Priority Program (5-PPP), which aims to drive efficiency, boost revenues, and safeguard trade.
At the heart of the program is the digitalization of customs processes. Building on the success of digitalizing 96.99% of its procedures in 2023, the BOC aims to fully automate its systems by the end of this year. Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said the initiative will enhance operational efficiency, improve transparency, and reduce the risk of corruption.
The agency is also focused on exceeding its revenue targets. After collecting a record-breaking P883.624 billion in 2023—an increase of 2.46 percent from the previous year—the BOC is now setting its sights on generating P1.06 trillion in 2025. Commissioner Rubio expressed confidence in achieving this goal through strengthened collection measures and a unified effort.
BOC collections between January and November last year total P850 billion, up 4.5 percent from the year-earlier period and already 90 percent of the revised target of P939.7 billion for 2024.
Another key focus is simplifying customs procedures to facilitate legitimate trade while maintaining security. The BOC plans to streamline its processes in line with international best practices, making it easier for businesses to comply with regulations. Rubio highlighted that this initiative is crucial for fostering economic growth.
Curbing smuggling remains a top priority for the Bureau. By intensifying anti-smuggling operations, the BOC aims to protect the nation’s borders and economic interests, ensuring the integrity of its trade systems.
Lastly, the BOC is dedicating substantial resources to improving employee welfare and professional development. Recognizing that its workforce is the organization’s backbone, the Bureau is committed to fostering growth and enhancing working conditions for its personnel.
Commissioner Rubio emphasized the importance of professionalism, integrity, excellence, and accountability in achieving these goals. “In 2025, let us set an even higher standard for ourselves and for the Bureau of Customs,” he said during the New Year’s Call.
The event also featured courtesy meetings with various BOC departments, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with the agency’s priorities. These efforts underscore the BOC’s commitment to contributing to national development in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision for a “Bagong Pilipinas.”
