PETRON Corp. led the nationwide list of Top 10 importers in 2022, according to the Bureau of Customs (BOC). Petron was followed by Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. Toyota Motor Philippines Corp, Unioil Petroleum Philippines Inc., and Seaoil Philippines Inc.
Completing the list were Insular Oil Corp., Filoil Logistics Corp., Chevron Philippines Inc., Jetti Petroleum Inc. and Nestle Philippines Inc. The biggest importers at the Port of Cebu were Filoil Logistics Corp., Seaoil Philippines Inc. and the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines.
These companies were recognized during BOC’s Stakeholders’ Night on Friday, March 17, 2023.
The agency said it attributes its success to its importers who had fully complied with their payable duties and taxes, contributing to the positive collection performance of the agency.
The rising oil prices due to the still ongoing Ukraine-Russia war has helped the BOC collect P862.929 billion for 2022.
From Jan. 1 to March 13 this year, the BOC already posted a total collection of P166.973 billion, achieving a surplus of P13.951 billion from its target of P153 billion.
5-Point Priority Program
The BOC said it commits to focus on accomplishing its five priority programs: (1) digitalize Customs processes; (2) hit and surpass the target; (3) simplify procedures and facilitate secure trade; (4) curb smuggling in all forms; and (5) uplift employee welfare and development.
“The Five-Point Priority Program is the testament of our commitment to improving efficiency, upgrading systems and processes, and promoting integrity and professionalism,” said Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio in a statement.
Meanwhile, Department of Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno challenged the BOC “to set a fresh vision and even loftier targets.”
Advisory council
The BOC commissioner also announced the creation of an Advisory Council, which will be the official forum for communications and consultations between the agency and the business community.
Among its intended functions is to assist the commissioner in achieving excellent delivery of customs policies and services and identifying obstacles in trade facilitation that result in delays and unnecessary costs.
“We believe that by bringing together various stakeholders to form an industry-wide advisory council, we will be able to develop even more relevant policies that respond to our present needs,” Rubio stressed. (KOC)