THE WORLD BANK is considering a loan that will fund the automation of the Bureau of Customs’ (BoC) systems to facilitate trade.
In a briefing on Monday, Customs Commissioner Isidro S. Lapeña said that World Bank representatives met with BoC officials on Friday last week, to discuss the $200 million loan program to upgrade the BoC’s computer systems.
“It’s about the automation of our systems; (after the upgrade they will)… be at par with other countries, not only in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) but also with the World Customs Organizations,” he said.
A memorandum of agreement for the loan deal has yet to be signed between the multilateral lender and the Finance department, according to Mr. Lapeña.
He said that the project can be fully implemented in two years time, if an agreement is signed before year’s end.
According to the World Bank, the program, known as the Philippines Customs and Trade Facilitation Project, aims to “improve the efficiency, effectiveness and transparency of the Bureau of Customs.”
The bank’s appraisal date for the project is Nov. 27, while the targeted board review date is July 12, 2018.
Apart from upgrading the computer systems, the project will also support the implementation of internationally agreed standards for the processing of imported and exported cargo consistent with World Trade Organization, World Customs Organization, and ASEAN commitments.
It will also support the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and the construction and operationalization of a National Customs Training Academy in either Subic or Clark.
Deputy Commissioner Edward James A. Dy Buco, during the same briefing, said: “This is a great help for the country. We really need to improve our computer system, and the project will improve not only our data system, but all the processes in the BoC.” — Elijah Joseph C. Tubayan
