MANILA -- In spite of the effect of the continuing logistical restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic to trade environment, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) collected P58.183 billion against its P53.751 billion July 2021 collection target, posting a surplus of P4.432 biliion or 8.2%.

Based on the preliminary report from the BOC-Financial Service, 14 of the 17 Collection Districts hit their target, namely the Ports of San Fernando, Manila, NAIA, Batangas, Legaspi, Tacloban, Surigao, Cagayan De Oro, Zamboanga, Davao, Subic, Clark, Aparri, and Limay.

Remarkably, the BOC was able to meet and exceed its monthly target collections since the onset of pandemic in 2020. Last year, the Bureau collected P539.687B or 106.23% of its target collection. Further, the Bureau maintains the feat by collecting P359.930B or 104.15% against its target collection of P345.584B from January to July 2021.

Indeed, the bureau continues to prove the intensified collective efforts of all ports this year, not to mention, the improvement of volume of importation while maintaining border security and trade facilitation.

BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero commended the efforts of the frontliners and employees of the Bureau of Customs who, despite the risk to their health and safety as Delta variant cases surge, showed their unwavering commitment and dedication to service. (BOC)