Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno has ordered the issuance of Notices of Delinquency with Final Demand to importers and consignees for the immediate withdrawal of their cargoes and compliance with payment of duties and taxes, tightening the agency’s drive to prevent congestion at the Manila ports.
District Collectors are also directed to submit consolidated reports to the Office of the Commissioner, through the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group (AOCG), every 15 days. These reports will help monitor shipments, collections, and the status of goods for appropriate action.
Nepomuceno issued this order for importers to withdraw and settle unpaid taxes as he warned of congestion at the Manila ports caused by overstaying shipments.
The memorandum aims to ensure that goods such as food and other easily spoiled items do not stay too long in ports, contributing to cargo buildup and port congestion.
Importers and consignees are reminded to closely monitor their shipments, settle duties and taxes promptly, complete documentation requirements on time, and immediately arrange cargo withdrawal upon clearance.
By acting without delay, Nepomuceno said, stakeholders can help prevent spoilage and wastage, ensure that these goods remain safe and fit for consumption when they reach the market, and free up valuable port space for incoming cargoes.
Aside from preventing port congestion, the measure strengthens accountability and standard procedures across Collection Districts while speeding up cargo clearance and reducing port congestion. Faster processing not only protects government revenue but also helps keep supply chains moving, allowing essential goods to reach stores and consumers on time and in good condition.
This initiative comes after the June 10 joint inspection conducted by Commissioner Nepomuceno and Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan at the Manila International Container Port (MICP), where 26 abandoned containers of fresh red onions were found to have deteriorated, with some already showing spoilage and sprouting due to prolonged stay at the port.
“This is a reminder for importers and consignees to promptly process the release of their shipments,” he said. “Our objective is prompt release of cargo clearance while protecting government revenues and ensuring continued trade flow,” the Commissioner said.
It is also important to avoid spoilage of perishable goods because of delayed release of cargoes.
Aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for efficient government services and stronger trade facilitation, Commissioner Nepomuceno said the initiative will help reduce port congestion, minimize spoilage and cargo dwell time, improve port utilization, and ensure that essential goods remain available and affordable for the public.
