By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently held a high-level meeting with government and industry partners to improve coordination and ensure smoother operations at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) and the Port of Manila (POM). The session, led by Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, focused on tackling congestion challenges and boosting overall port efficiency.
Participants included Deputy Commissioner for the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group, Atty. Agaton Teodoro O. Uvero, AOCG officials, district collectors of MICP and POM, as well as representatives from key industry players such as International Container Terminal Services, Inc., the Maritime Industry Authority, and the Philippine Ports Authority.
The discussions emphasized enhancing planning and forecasting, implementing dwell-time policies, and streamlining cargo release processes to prevent bottlenecks, especially during peak periods. Commissioner Nepomuceno highlighted the importance of consistent coordination among agencies and stakeholders to modernize operations and improve service delivery—efforts aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s administration initiatives to promote ease of doing business and strengthen the country’s trade competitiveness. /iam
