Importers and exporters have been urged to clear shipments early as the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) prepare for road restrictions that could disrupt cargo movements during the Philippines-hosted ASEAN activities.
Both agencies will extend working hours this week to speed up shipment processing and cargo release ahead of ASEAN Week activities on November 16–18, 2026.
The advisory covers importers, exporters, customs brokers, and other stakeholders, who were encouraged to complete documentation, arrange inspections, and secure the necessary permits and clearances before the restrictions take effect.
The push for early clearance is intended to prevent shipments from getting caught in a logistical bottleneck as road restrictions affect transport movements and make cargo deliveries more difficult.
The BOC said it would retain a skeleton workforce in frontline offices during the suspension of regular government operations on November 16–18 to assist traders and other stakeholders with urgent transactions.
The agencies also encouraged businesses to coordinate with concerned offices and avoid leaving shipment requirements until the last minute.
With transport access expected to be constrained during the regional gathering, early processing could help keep goods moving, prevent congestion at ports and other cargo facilities, and minimize disruption to supply chains.
Traders must get the paperwork and cargo moving before ASEAN-related road restrictions turn routine clearance into a waiting game.
