House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez and ACT-CIS Party-List Representatives, Cong. Erwin T. Tulfo and Cong. Edvic G. Yap, visited the Bureau of Customs - Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) on September 25, 2024, to inspect rice shipments following reports of port congestion due to delays in releases.
During the inspection, BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio clarified that there is no port congestion and that all shipments have been cleared by Customs, addressing concerns that have recently circulated. Commissioner Rubio further emphasized that the delays are not caused by port-related issues but rather by the practice of importers maximizing the 30-day allowable period to claim their shipments upon settlement of customs duties and taxes.
Speaker Romualdez urged rice importers to expedite the release of tax-paid shipments and promptly pull out their shipments to ensure an adequate rice supply, avoid potential price hikes, and refrain from illegal hoarding activities, warning that they may face the full force of the law if they do not comply.
In response, Commissioner Rubio assured that the BOC is fully committed to facilitating the prompt release of rice shipments, working diligently to prevent disruptions in the rice supply chain, and curtailing illegal hoarding activities.
The House Speaker also commended the BOC for its efforts and vigilance in monitoring rice imports.
The BOC fully supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to ensure a stable supply of consumer goods and maintain affordable prices for Filipinos, reinforcing the government's commitment to safeguarding the nation's food security.
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