Shipping lines asked to submit advance manifest

INTERNATIONAL shipping lines will soon be required to comply with the advance manifest system of the Bureau of Customs before arriving at the Philippine ports.

By the third week of October, BOC would start rolling the World Customs Organization (WCO) Cargo Targeting System (CTS), which is a tool for advanced

- ping lines and airlines arrive at the Philippine ports. The pilot testing has started last October 2, 2019.

“This is mandated by the government so we have to abide to this. The details of the containers are provided by the cargo owners anyway, we just have to ensure that we try and meet the deadlines they provide,” said one

asked for comment.

BOC said the full implementation of the CTS, which was part of Customs’ 10- Point Priority Program, was aimed at boosting trade efficiency, and strengthen border security.

After the successful demonstration and pilot testing, the Bureau of Customs would be ready to launch and use the WCO Cargo Targeting System, which will in

target high-risk cargoes.

“The objective is to require foreign carriers (sea vessels and aircraft) or their authorized agents to electronically transmit cargo information in advance using assessment, anti- terrorism, law enforcement and other related purposes,” BOC said.

Under the system, the Customs bureau would require shipping lines to comply with mandated timelines for the submission of manifests.

The system would enable Customs to perform a comprehensive and effective risk assessment of import, export and transshipment cargo to identify high-risk shipments and to facilitate trade.