Speech of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

121st Founding Anniversary of the Bureau of Customs 7 February

I am one with you in dedicating this time to honor the 121st Founding Anniversary of the Bureau of Customs. For over 120 years now, the Bureau of Customs has collected and assessed customs duties, curbed illicit trade and all forms of customs fraud, as well as facilitated trade through a customs management system.

I am honored to witness the advancements that were made possible by all your vigorous efforts in realizing and surpassing your goals. Your feats speak volumes of your collective resolve to contribute to the nation’s economic integration and development.

It is commendable that last year, the Bureau of Customs collected more than 862 billion pesos — an amount that is 34 percent higher than the 643 billion it collected in 2021. In fact, I note that all your Collection Districts have surpassed their individual revenue targets in 2022, which enabled the Bureau to exceed your annual target for the year.

We likewise acknowledge the Bureau of Customs’ efforts in strengthening the government’s campaign against the proliferation of illegal drugs, counterfeit goods, illegally imported agricultural products, and other contrabands.

In 2022, the Bureau of Customs’ AntiSmuggling Campaign recorded 729 apprehensions with a total estimated value of more than 24 billion pesos, which I hope you will further sustain and toughen in the years ahead.

Furthermore, the Bureau of Customs has remained committed in its pursuit of reinforcing transparency and reliability, enhancing tax compliance, and boosting administrative efficiency with its digitalization programs.

I am, thus, very pleased as we recognize these and all the other achievements of the Bureau of Customs. I have been made aware that we will be awarding today (and just recently did) the outstanding men and women of the Bureau for their exceptional performance and contributions to the BoC.

Moving forward, I trust that the BoC will continue its efforts towards digitalization so that we can achieve a more conducive Customs environment in tune with international standards and best practices. It is my hope that, as we commence another year, all the officials and staff of the Bureau of Customs will stand firm in your commitment to help steer the economy back to its high- growth path.I, thus, encourage each and every one of you to continue being a catalyst to promote ease of doing business and facilitate the movement of trade and investments in the country.

I also urge all the men and women of the Bureau of Customs to perform your duties in accordance with the highest standards of excellence, integrity, and good governance.

May you also remain steadfast in fulfilling the BoC Strategy Map 2023 to achieve your aim to be among the top three Customs Administrations in the ASEAN region.

Rest assured that this Administration will give you its unreserved support for the realization of your vision to achieve a modernized and credible Customs administration through enhanced trade facilitation, strengthened border controls, and improved collection of lawful revenues.

I am confident that, through our joint efforts, we will push our country forward by generating more employment opportunities, building more infrastructure, and meeting the demands of changing realities.

Together, let us develop a better, brighter, and more prosperous society for the benefit of the present and succeeding generations.

Maraming salamat at mabuhay tayong lahat!*