IT IS business for the three major ports of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the National Capital Region (NCR) during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders' Summit next week.

In a statement, the BOC said that the Port of Manila (POM), Manila International Container Port (MICP), and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) will be fully operational and open for public transactions on November 17 to 20.

It added that Customs employees assigned to operations, and assessment will be working on a 7 a.m.-7 p.m. shift even on weekends.

President Benigno Aquino III has issued Proclamation No. 1072 declaring November 18 and 19 as Special Non-Working days in the NCR, and Memorandum Circular No. 84, s. 2015, suspending work in government offices for November 17 to 20, in view of the APEC meeting.

At least 19 world leaders and head of states, including United States President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping, are expected to attend the annual summit, which seeks to promote trade and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region.

The bureau has expedited clearing of shipments as part of its initiative to pull out heavy volumes to clear ports. (FP/Sunnex)