MANILA -- In line with the directives of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero to further enhance ease of doing business and promote transparency, the Bureau of Customs - Port of NAIA (BOC-NAIA) headed by District Collector Carmelita M. Talusan, met with China Airlines representatives on November 16, 2021.

In attendance from China Airlines were Ms. Lilian Siy, Assistant Station Manager, and Ms. Christine Cruz, Senior Traffic.

During the meeting, China Airlines briefed the BOC-NAIA on the latest airline protocols for arriving and/or departing passengers and their baggage as restrictions in different countries are gradually relaxed vis-à-vis current IATF guidelines being implemented in the country.

The said meeting further focused in the establishment of an efficient and effective communication channel between the airline operator and information office of the port, for an envisioned real-time sharing and coordination of policies and statutory updates and announcements.

On the other hand, the Port of NAIA acknowledged the foreseeable upward volume trend of air cargoes and passengers during Christmas season. Accordingly, to ensure expeditious processing and clearance of air cargoes, the Port of NAIA, conducts continuous information dissemination through webinars and forums, publication of guidelines for passenger clearance, and coordination with warehouse operators for additional x-ray equipment.

Moreover, the Port of NAIA also had several engagements with government agencies such as the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), and the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPOST) to further enhance inter-goverment processes and coordination for expeditious clearance of legally imported goods.

Recently, the Port also engaged with non-governmental institutions and international non-profit banks such as the Asian Development Bank for sharing of best practices and establishment of communication and cooperation to promote economic growth and fast-track humanitarian aid to the region through trade facilitation.

The Bureau of Customs under the leadership of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero and the Port of NAIA, headed by Collector Talusan, remain committed in pursuing initiatives to strengthen partnership and cooperation with different government and non-governmental agencies and organizations, and enhance information dissemination to aid all stakeholders especially during this yuletide season. (BOC)