In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to advance trade facilitation, digitalization, and regional collaboration, Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio led the Philippine delegation to the 26th World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Heads of Customs Administrations (RHCA) Conference, held from May 18 to 22, 2025, in Hong Kong.
Representing the Philippines, Commissioner Rubio underscored the BOC’s unwavering commitment to enhancing border security, streamlining trade processes, and deepening cooperation with regional partners—efforts aimed at making trade not only faster and safer but also more accessible for Filipino consumers and businesses alike.
Joining Commissioner Rubio were Collector Rechilda T. Oquias and senior BOC officials, who presented the country’s advancements in customs modernization, anti-smuggling initiatives, and public-private partnerships. The delegation highlighted key reforms under the BOC’s digital transformation strategy, showcasing best practices that contribute to improved trade efficiency and enforcement capabilities.
The high-level conference convened customs leaders from across the Asia Pacific region to address pressing issues, including cross-border e-commerce, trade security, and emerging technology in customs operations. Delegates also welcomed new heads of customs from Australia, China, Hong Kong, Iran, Japan, Macao, and the Maldives.
Key outcomes from the conference included the reaffirmation of the region’s commitment to the WCO Strategic Plan 2022–2025 and the establishment of the Regional Strategic Plan Working Group for 2024–2026. Progress reports were also delivered by regional entities on capacity building, intelligence sharing, and stakeholder engagement.
Commissioner Rubio played an active role in the discussions, reaffirming the Philippines’ support for regional platforms such as the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) and the Regional Intelligence Liaison Office (RILO A/P). These initiatives, he noted, are essential for building the competencies of customs officers and enhancing coordinated efforts against smuggling and the trafficking of illicit goods.
The Philippines also spotlighted the creation of the Customs Industry Consultative Advisory Council (CICAC)—the first of its kind in the agency’s history—under Commissioner Rubio’s leadership. The CICAC aims to institutionalize collaboration between the BOC and industry stakeholders to ensure inclusive and responsive customs policies.
The BOC’s active participation in the RHCA Conference, along with the alignment of its 5-Point Priority Programs with regional strategies, reflects the Philippines’ strong resolve to build a future-ready customs system. These initiatives are designed to support national economic growth, protect public welfare, and position the Philippines as a competitive and trusted trading partner in the Asia Pacific.
