BoC goes hi-tech in tracking down imported goods
May 5, 2010 The Bureau of Customs (BoC) is yet to prove its recently rolled out automated national single window system of speedy processing of incoming cargoes, it is now going hi-tech by adopting the state-of-the- art Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to track down container trucks leaving customs territories.
Adopting GPS technology was announced by Customs Deputy Commissioner Reynaldo Nicolas the other day as he led the public consultation on the Enhanced Customs Transit System project in its headquarters at the Manila Port Area.
In line with this plan, Nicolas will also head two new units that will accredit the GPS service providers and monitor the GPS implementation.
GPS is one of the cutting-edge technologies brought about by the information revolution. It uses satellites in tracking down anything that moves on earth. It was popularized during the US invasion of Iraq when war planes bombed military targets with pinpoint precision with the aid of satellite-monitored intelligence data on the ground.
In the Philippines, GPS is known to be used by the biggest security agencies in tracking down armored vehicles that fetch and deliver cash to and from banks.
During the public hearing, Nicolas said that the BOC is set to finalize the drafts for the Customs Administrative Order (CAO) that sets the rules on the operations of the satellite-aided monitoring system and the Customs Memorandum Order (CMO) detailing its operations.
When operational, the enhanced transit system is envisioned to stamp customs seals with satellite monitoring devices upon the arrival of a containerized cargo. For breakbulk cargo, barcoded tapes are used.
Based on pre-determined destinations, the cargo is released and tracked in real time by computers based in any of the ports of entry from the time the hauler leaves the port to the moment it reaches its pre-declared destination.
In case a cargo is brought elsewhere, the team tracking those imported goods, notify the police. The diverted cargo is intercepted and confiscated. It is one anti-smuggling weapon that seems to be foolproof if it is made to work.
During the public consultation, Atty. Clemente G. San Agustin, Vice President for Operations of the Philippine Exporters Confederation, Inc. (PHILEXPORT), raised the issue of possible increase in costs as GPS instruments are installed, compared to the current set-up where containers are "customs guarded". He further stressed the importance of working with the Philippine National Police to ensure the safety of the containers despite the GPS.
Nicolas committed to look at the costs and expressed confidence that the new rates will not be higher than the existing levels. He likewise reported that the BOC has already initiated talks with the PNP to help the BOC in this matter.
Another participant recommended that the BOC conduct a time and motion study first before the program becomes fully operational in the middle of next year. He cited that the x-ray scanning of goods is already causing additional processing time. The implementation of the GPS program, he pointed out, should not further clog the ports.
- Published by Abe P. Belena, PHILEXPORT News and Features || April 30, 2010
| 
