By Junex Doronio
MANILA — For three consecutive months, the Bureau of Customs under the proactive leadership of BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio has exceeded its monthly target collection, and last month it collected P75.429 billion, surpassing its target of P72.910 billion by 3.45%.
Maharlika NuMedia learned that March’s collection performance brought the year-to-date BOC’s revenues to P219.385 billion, 4.03% higher than the goal of P210.896 billion for the January to March 2024 period.
“The revenue collected by our agency serves as a lifeline for our government coffers, funding crucial national projects such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and disaster preparedness,” Rubio said.
“Every peso collected is a testament to our commitment to serving the Filipino people and building a brighter future for our nation,” Rubio added.
In a statement on Wednesday (3 April 2024), the BOC said its first three months of collection year-on-year grew by 2.60% or P5.557 billion from P213.829 billion revenues recorded in the same period in 2023.
The BOC further said its fiscal performance during the period was attributed to its higher assessment rate or enhanced system for determining the customs value of imported goods.
However, some Customs brokers told Maharlika NuMedia that the “high duties and taxes” have adversely affected their business.
“Walang gustong magpaparating kung ganyan na mataas ang duties and taxes. Palugi ang negosyo,” complained the Customs brokers who requested anonymity for fear of reprisal.
The BOC said intensified post-clearance audit also resulted in ensuring compliance with customs laws and collection of rightful duties and taxes from importers.
(el Amigo/MNM)
