The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has collaborated with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to continue enhancing its capacity amid evolving needs in customs operations.
The BOC delegation comprising Atty. Erwin T. Mendoza, Deputy Commissioner of the Internal Administration Group; District Collector Jairus S. Reyes, Port of Clark; Joseph G. Escasio, Head of the Learning and Development Management Office; and Rechilda T. Oquias, Head of the External Affairs Office, represented the BOC, actively engaged in the 16th Session of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Capacity Building Committee (CBC), held in Brussels, Belgium, from February 26–28, 2024—a delegation
Under the theme “Reimagining the WCO Capacity Building Paradigm – Thriving with Strategic Purpose and Resource Optimization,” the session addressed the evolving landscape of customs capacity building. Delegates focused on aligning strategies with modernization efforts to maximize resources and enhance global customs operations.
Key discussions centered on evidence-based technical assistance to ensure capacity-building initiatives are data-driven and effective.
The session also tackled WCO technical standards implementation to promote consistent application of international customs standards.
The discussion also focused on enhanced donor coordination; uniform quality standards; leveraging technology and data; upskilling professionals; promoting gender-responsive and inclusive policies; and, regional entities as force multipliers.
The BOC’s participation underscores its commitment to supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda of modernizing governance and improving public service delivery. The insights gained from the session will directly inform the BOC’s ongoing efforts to optimize resources, drive innovation, and strengthen regional and global partnerships.
These actions are aligned with Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s 5-Point Priority Program, which emphasizes capacity building to elevate employee morale and operational efficiency. Through strategic engagement with the WCO, the BOC reinforces its dedication to implementing best international practices and fostering a more efficient and responsive customs service.
