Customs bureau upgrades import, export system  

CLARK FREEPORT — The Clark Development Corporation (CDC) announced the upgrading of import and export automated system project of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) here. 

The program is in compliance with the Electronic Transit and Admission Permit System (E-Taps) of Clark Freeport and Subic Bay Freeport. 

For updates from around the country, follow Sun.Star on Twitter

The E-Taps has ensured seamless transaction on import and export processing inside the two freeports last year. 

CDC President Benigno Ricafort said the automation project dubbed E2M “seeks to streamline BOC’s import and export processes and improve trade facilitation between the Bureau and its stakeholders, including other government agencies. 

“There is also an integration of various systems using the Internet and later the SMS (or text messaging),” he said.  

“This is towards our thrust of shifting to automation of processes for lesser face-to-face transactions,” said Ricafort on his memorandum circular to various import and exporting firms inside the Freeport. 

Importers and brokers must secure valid and active client customer number (CCN) from the Client Profile Registration System (CPRS) in order to transact in the E2M Customs environment, Ricafort said. 

Importers and exporters should maintain bank account(s) information and bank reference numbers of their Authorized Agent Banks (AABs) for electronic payment of customs duties and taxes.
 
Firms should also have appropriate licenses, clearance, permits from concerned issuing agencies for their importation, Ricafort said. 

He urged investors to accredit with the automation project of BOC for easy transactions. 

“It is with our knowledge that some of Clark locators still do not have CCN since they have not yet filed their CPRS application or have filed them but are still awaiting approval from the BOC,” Ricafort said. 

“BOC has agreed to give CDC access to their system and authorization to approve locators’ CPRS applications,” the CDC president said. 

Ricafort also urged the locators to comply with the guidelines before February 16 to avoid inconveniences on filing for import/export permits.