The Bureau of Customs – Port of Manila (BOC–POM) is stepping up internal coordination and compliance efforts as it prepares for a key external audit and accelerates initiatives to boost revenue collection.
At a Division Heads Meeting held on April 14, District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba convened deputy collectors, subport collectors, division chiefs, and support unit heads to align priorities and reinforce operational discipline across the port. The gathering underscored a unified push toward efficiency, accountability, and stronger inter-unit coordination.
Central to the discussions were updates from subports and support units on ongoing programs, alongside preparations for the upcoming External Surveillance Audit scheduled in May. Officials highlighted the importance of maintaining ISO-aligned quality management systems, signaling the port’s focus on compliance and continuous improvement in service delivery.
Revenue generation remained a key agenda point. The port reported progress on assessment catch-up plans designed to close gaps and sustain collection performance, while timelines for the auction of seized luxury vehicles were also reviewed as part of broader efforts to optimize non-traditional revenue streams.
Torralba stressed that meeting operational timelines will depend on consistent execution and teamwork across all units. He called for sustained discipline and shared accountability, noting that coordination remains critical in navigating both compliance requirements and revenue targets.
The meeting also reaffirmed alignment with the broader direction set by Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, particularly on strengthening transparency, improving service quality, and ensuring steady revenue growth.
As one of the country’s busiest trade gateways, the Port of Manila’s renewed focus on governance, audit readiness, and collection efficiency signals a continued effort to modernize operations while supporting national fiscal goals.