BOC to issue ‘final demand’ to hasten release of imports

BUREAU of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno has ordered the issuance of ‘Notices of Delinquency with Final Demand’ against importers with unreleased shipments to avoid port congestion, secure government revenue and prevent waste especially of food and other perishable goods.

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.

The order is part of the guidance the Customs Chief issued during their last Collectors’ Conference held at the Port of Limay last June 11 and prompted by the inspection the Customs Chief and Senate Committee on Agriculture chair, Senator Francis ‘Kiko’ Pangilinan a day before at the Manila International Container Port.

That inspection led to the seizure of 26 containers of red onions from China valued at more than ₱86.7 million that the importer failed to release on time (Pinoy Exposé, June 15, 2026).

The latest instruction is expected to further to strengthens accountability and standard procedures across all collection districts while speeding up cargo clearance and reducing port congestion.

“This is a reminder for importers and consignees to promptly process the release of their shipments. Layunin natin na mapabilis ang cargo clearance habang napoprotektahan ang kita ng pamahalaan at tuloy-tuloy ang daloy ng kalakalan,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said, adding:

“Mahalaga rin na maiwasan ang pagkasira ng mga perishable goods dahil sa delays.”

All District Collectors have been 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 imported goods for appropriate action.