New issue hogs BOC

Still reeling from the “balikbayan” boxes debacle and other controversies, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) is facing another complaint for its Computer “Special Stop” system on various shipments entering the ports. In a recent letter to BOC, through Deputy Commissioner Art Lachica, importing firms asked for the lifting of the agency’s Special Stop system due to the “arbitrary holding” of their shipments. Renato Locre, representative of Mourpling Trading and Jeana Roldan, representative of Asiong’s Industrial Products signed the letter dated August 20. Importers complained that the implementation of the Special Stop system is “not covered by a written regulation or order.” (Raymund F. Antonio)