Port of Clark credits ‘IAM Customs’ for robust tax collection

THE Port of Clark under District Collectot Jairus Reyes has credited the reforms and initiatives the entire Bureau of Customs has taken under the ‘IAM Customs Movement’ initiative of Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno for its robust revenue performance in the first six months of the year.

Citing from official data, Collector Reyes noted that from January to June, the Port of Clark turned in ₱2.765 billion in revenue, exceeding its goal by ₱104.71 million, while intensifying anti-smuggling operations through the issuance of 51 Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSDs) covering smuggled goods valued at more than ₱614 million.

“By combining digital innovation, stakeholder collaboration, and operational excellence, the Port of Clark has strengthened trade facilitation, improved service delivery, and reinforced border protection in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a modern, efficient, and transparent government that promotes economic growth and ease of doing business,” Reyes said in a statement thru the Public Information Assistance Division (PIAD).

‘IAM Customs Movement’ is anchored on three simple policy directives of Commissioner Nepomuceno after assuming office just a year ago, namely: Integrity, Accountability and Modernization.

Reyes also credited their “strong partnership” with the local Customs Industry Consultative and Advisory Council (CICAC), Clark Development Corporation (CDC), LIPAD Corporation, and Air Express Cargo Operators (AECOs).

“Through these collaborations, the Port facilitated the use of commercial flights by FedEx and UPS to improve cargo connectivity, implemented the MRO-FAST (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul – Facilitated Access for Services and Trade) Customs Procedures that expedite aircraft maintenance shipments, and continuously refined customs processes to support Clark’s goal of becoming Asia’s premier air express sorting hub,” Reyes explained.

The Port likewise strengthened public service by enforcing its Zero Pending Entries and Transactions Policy, extending processing hours until 7:00 p.m., maintaining weekend and holiday operations, and conducting regular stakeholder dialogues to resolve operational concerns before they affect business operations.

Citing from official data, Collector Reyes noted that from January to June, the Port of Clark turned in ₱2.765 billion in revenue, exceeding its goal by ₱104.71 million, while intensifying anti-smuggling operations through the issuance of 51 Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSDs) covering smuggled goods valued at more than ₱614 million.

 

It also enhanced passenger service through a tripartite agreement with LIPAD Corporation and the Korean Community Association in Central Luzon, providing dedicated Korean interpreters at Clark International Airport to better assist arriving passengers.

Complementing these initiatives, the Port continues to strengthen border security through the development of the operational framework for the Clark International Airport Inter-Agency Drug Task Force while investing in personnel capability-building and community development programs that reinforce the Bureau’s commitment to responsive and people-centered public service.

Remarking on the Port’s accomplishments, Commissioner Nepomuceno said:

“The Port of Clark has shown that meaningful reforms are driven by people who are committed to doing what is right and doing it well.

“I congratulate District Collector Jairus S. Reyes and the entire men and women of the Port for embracing the IAM Movement and turning its principles into action.

“Sana’y magsilbi itong inspirasyon sa buong ahensya na patuloy na maghatid ng tapat, mahusay, at makabagong serbisyo para sa sambayanang Pilipino.”