BoC-Port of Subic welcomes new chief

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT: A veteran official of the Bureau of Customs (BoC) is taking over the top position of the BoC-Port of Subic, bringing with him a wealth of experience to help boost the agency’s operations.

Lawyer Ricardo Morales 2nd formally began his stint as the new district collector of Port of Subic on Monday, April 1, following the regular flag-raising ceremony.

Morales was welcomed by personnel at Port of Subic as he expressed his “profound enthusiasm for the journey ahead.”

Prior to his appointment here, Morales served as the district collector of the ports of Clark and Cebu.

People close to him said his rise from the ranks “exemplifies his dedication and commitment to public service.”

In his speech, Morales highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration in “navigating the challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie on the horizon.”

“I am deeply humbled and honored to lead the esteemed team here at the Port of Subic,” Morales said.

“Let us unite our efforts and energies as we strive relentlessly to uphold the integrity of our operations and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic prosperity.”

Morales added that he will embrace the directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and support BoC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio’s 5-point priority program that aims to digitalize Customs processes; hit and surpass the target; simplify procedures and facilitate secure trade; curb smuggling in all forms; and uplift employee welfare and development.

He also asked for the support of the port’s workforce to boost the operations of their office.

As Morales assumed office, the Port of Subic announced that it had exceeded its monthly collection target for March this year by 3.73 percent.

This surplus amounts to P196.61 million, exceeding the set target of P5.268 billion. Last month’s performance, under the leadership of former Port of Subic district collector Ciriaco Ugay, set a high standard for operational excellence and fiscal responsibility.

The port also managed to collect a total of P15.207 billion against its target of P14.343 billion, resulting in a 6.03 percent surplus for the first quarter of the year.