BoC developing new online calculator
THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) has temporarily removed its online duty and tax calculator from its website for improvement after a celebrity complained on hefty import duties.
In a statement on Monday, BoC said the online calculator will remain unavailable while the agency is developing an improved version of the tool, which will be regularly updated to reflect prevailing rates and clearer total dues.
“To avoid similar situations in the future, I directed that the calculator be taken down until enhancements are completed. The upgraded system will provide a more comprehensive breakdown, ensuring that all applicable charges are properly reflected,” Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said.
This came as actress Bella Padilla posted on X that she was charged P4,600 in taxes for a shipment worth P11,000.
Meanwhile, the Customs online calculator only showed she should only be charged P1,650.
Ms. Padilla’s shipment includes hair treatment, lip balm, and skin care products, the BoC said.
The BoC’s online tax calculator allows users to estimate the duties and taxes required to pay for items imported to the Philippines.
Mr. Nepomuceno explained that the computation of duties and taxes is based on the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and related regulations.
“While the current calculator provides estimates, it does not yet reflect all lawful charges required by law, which may have led to misunderstanding when compared with the official assessment,” he said. — Aubrey Rose A. Inosante
