BOC releases new CBW guidelines

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced the release of a new guidelines that would govern the operation of ‘CBWs’ (customs bonded warehouse), in compliance with the requirements of RA 10863 otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) of 2016, thru Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 01-2022.

A CBW refers to a warehouse authorized by the BOC to import, receive, and store goods or materials either for manufacture into finished products for export or storage.

Only the BOC is authorized and responsible for the licensing of all CBWs. These warehouses are considered as extension of customs premises concerning the dutiable goods stored thereat for the protection of government revenue.

The CAO applies to all types of CBWs listed in the CMTA which include manufacturing and non-manufacturing CBWs, among others.

CAO 01-2022 provides the guidelines for the establishment, operation, supervision, and control of CBWs, protect revenue through institution of safeguard and control measures over CBWs, define the rights, and obligations of operators of CBWs accredited sub-contractors and members, improve the level of compliance of CBW operators, establish, develop, and implement CBW raw materials management system and, align BOC regulations on CBWs with international standards and best practices.

The CAO is different from other customs orders and regulations as it has to be signed by the Secretary of Finance before its implementation.

Under CAO 01-2022, the procedure for the application for the Issuance of Authority to Operate and documentary requirements are also listed under the administrative provisions of the order, as well as all operational provisions related to CBW, and responsibilities of all CBW operators.

In case of violations and non-compliance to the order, different administrative sanctions without prejudice to the criminal and other administrative liability provided under the CMTA, may be imposed upon the operator for incidence such as diversion of bonded goods, unauthorized withdrawal or transfer of goods, unauthorized relocation of CBW and changes in its layout that has been approved by the BOC.

For easy access, CAO 01-2021 is uploaded at the BOC website under “Issuances” tab for the reference and information of BOC employees and stakeholders.

The said CAO may be accessed through the link:

https://customs.gov.ph/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/CAO-01-2022-Customs-Bonded-Warehouses.pdf

Clark Airport ready to welcome arrivals

Meanwhile, Port of Clark district collector, Alexandra Lumontad, said her district has successfully participated in the ‘live integrated trials’ conducted by airport officials as part of the government’s preparation for the opening and operation of the new Clark International Airport.

The live trials, which are vital to determine the preparedness of the airport for its full operations, were conducted last March 4 and March 10, 2022 that involved live arrival and departure simulations with passenger volunteers.

Aside from Lumontad, also present during the simulation were the port’s deputy collectors and personnel from the Passenger Services, ESS, CAIDTF, CIIS & XIP.

Lumontad also informed BOC chief, Rey Leonardo Guerrero that they are in constant coordination with Luzon International Premier Airport Development Corporation (LIPAD), the operator and manager of the Clark International Airport, for the efficient transition to the new and bigger airport terminal.

“BOC Offices in the new terminal are currently being renovated in preparation for the influx of travelers and passengers,” she added.

The new airport is expected to commence operation by the middle of next month, April.