Enhance the procedures for the entry and exit of goods (BOC)

2.1     X-ray machines for imported/export inspection

 The X-ray Machine Project ensures that export and imported shipments comply with international safety standards. It utilizes both mobile and stationary x-ray machines, of which some have already been deployed and installed in the Ports of Manila, Subic, Cebu, Davao, MICP, and the Sub-Port of General Santos City. Preliminary trainings and seminar for the X-ray Operators have already been conducted, and will be completed as soon as the project roll-out is complete. Meetings have already been started to discuss on the issue of the fees that will be charged for the use of the x-ray machines.

2.2     National Single Electronic Window

The National Single Electronic Window Project aims to computerize and integrate all import and export-related data between the BOC and DA, as well as among the BOC-LTO-DTI, BOC-PNP-PEZA-SEIPI, and BOC-BOI-LTO-PAFI.

MOU/MOA was signed last Dec. 2006 for the pilot implementation of the NSEW between the BOC and other agencies of the DA involved in the processing/issuance of permits and licenses for the importation of agricultural and fishery products.

• USAID provided the support for DA Harmonization Project (Jan.-June 2007).
• BOC and DA have conducted five (5) meetings to discuss on the Technical, Regulatory, and Harmonization matters of the project.
• BOC has trained one (1) personnel per DA agency as of March 2007.
• Agencies to exchange import (and later on exports) clearance information with Customs.
• BOC has already provided the hardware, software, and training. Systems connectivity is already ongoing.
• Admin. Order of DA on Harmonization and Use of Standard Forms has already been drafted.
• Project Rollout by mid-2007

MOA was signed in March 2007 among BOC, BIS, and LTO for the Processing of Importations of Motor Vehicle Parts/Components. 

• Initiative was expanded to NSW for import and export clearance for vehicle industry.
• BOC to provide hardware, connectivity, software, and training.
• Will also include the APEC-funded project of FAPI.Harmonization and Standardization still ongoing.
• Project Rollout by 3rd Qtr of 2007

MOU was signed in October 2006 among BOC, PNP, PEZA, and SEIPI for the development and implementation of an automated system for the processing of applications of economic zone export-producer enterprises for the importation of chemicals and other materials the PNP is monitoring/controlling.

ASEAN Single Window Steering Committee meeting was conducted in Hanoi last 4 June 2007

• Working Group on Technical Matters
• Working Group on Legal and Regulatory Matters
• USAID Presentation of Country Preparedness for ASW – Hanoi, June 1 & 4, 2007

1st TWG Summit by 4th Week of June – USAID-funded

• Organization, mobilization, presentation of 2 Pilot Projects, Work Program on Technical, Legal and Regulatory Matters, Harmonization and Standardization, and Business Processes

1st NSW Summit July 2007 – USAID-funded

• Steering Committee meeting
• Presentation of Work Program for 2007-08

2.3     Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA-World)

The Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA-World) is an internet-based lodgment system of Customs information that integrates all the agencies processes. This includes the Import and Assessment System, Automated Export Documentation System (AEDS), Automated Bonds Management System (ABMS), Raw Materials Liquidation System (RMLS), Import and Export Support System, BOC Portal, Exports Processing System, Funds Monitoring System, and Resource and Operations Management System. The ASYCUDA-World is now queued for parallel-runs and into full implementation.

Systems related to import and export are currently on-going implementation.

• Conducted pilot-testing for Electronic Lodgment thru VASPs (April – July 2007)
• Client Profile Registration System and Licensing and Clearance System data build-up (May – Aug. 2007)
• Completed Internal and External Stakeholders Briefing (for Import and Export Groups).
• Conducted workforce transition planning.
• Distributed information materials (posters, AVP, brochure, ‘peryodikit’)
• Conducted Train-the-Trainers program, project overview courses, use of e-mail, and technical trainings.
• Conducted information caravan in pilot ports.
• Delivered and installed main system servers with software
• Delivered production support servers and software
• Installed network and electrical cablings
• Ongoing deployment of new computers, IP phones and other peripherals
• Ongoing installation of e-mail system and internet facilities
• Conducted nationwide site assessment survey and site rehabilitation requirements
• Completed modernization of the new BOC ICT Center
• Renovated MISTG office and training rooms
• Completed renovation of Formal Entry Division and Cash Division in the Port of Manila

VASP (Value Added Service Providers Milestones)

• Finalized eligibility requirements and published invitations for VASPs
• Received eligibility requirements submitted by VASPs
• Completed eligibility check and selected eligible companies
• Issued general information for the preparation of technical and financial proposals from the VASPs
• Received and evaluated technical and financial proposals
• Released detailed system requirements for VASPs
• Developed VASP Application and is currently under Technical Testing.

2.4     Accession to the Kyoto Convention

The Accession to the Revised Kyoto Convention Project aims to have the country accede and comply with the provisions set in the International Convention on the Simplification and Harmonization of Customs Procedures. This will ensure that the country abides with international standards and best practices in trade, and enhance its competitiveness and economic efficiency for the planned ASEAN Customs Integration and Trade Facilitation. The project is spearheaded by the joint efforts of the BOC, through its Kyoto Convention Management Team, and PACT (Partnership and Advocacy for Competitiveness and Trade). The project is now focusing its efforts in the acquisition of the Senate Resolution with the concurrence and approval of the Instrument of Accession, and their implementation as planned in the National Strategy for RKC Compliance.

The National Strategy on Revised Kyoto Convention Compliance has already been endorsed to the DOF and DTI. The Instrument of Accession is expected to be signed by end of April 2007. Executive orders will be drafted. Senate Resolution will be obtained along with the concurrence and approval of the Instrument of Accession.

The private sector letter of endorsement on the Philippine accession to RKC is with the DFA United Nations and International Organizations (UNIO) office, transmitted to them by the Office of the President for review and study. DFA-UNIO is currently awaiting an inter-agency meeting to be chaired by Dep. Comm. Rey Nicolas of BOC to familiarize the group with the technicalities. As soon as the inter-agency group has done its study and sees the merit of Philippine accession to RKC, DFA will prepare the instruments of ratification for the President's signature and eventually to be deposited to WCO and transmitted to the Senate for concurrence.