If you think you know everything about the Bureau of Customs’ e2m (electronic-to-mobile) system, then navigating your way through CPRS, CCN, e-iFM, e-CCM, BRN, SSDT, OLRS, AEDS and VASP won’t be a problem at all.
But how about terms — ABMS or Automated Bonds Management System and RMLS or Raw Materials Liquidation System? You may not have heard of these since they are e2m components not yet implemented.
For 2013, you need to update your vocabulary even further and learn about PNSW, e-AWB and i-PCS.
Philippine National Single Window (PNSW)
Originally referred to as National Single Window (NSW), the acronym PNSW is formally used when referring to the internet-based system that allows Filipino importers/exporters to lodge information and documents with a single entry point to fulfill all imports, exports and transit-related regulatory requirements. PNSW is also a business tool for the Bureau of Customs and other government agencies to put up measures and controls in releasing cargo.
Its key features include online submission of application and supporting documents, online processing and approval by agencies which form part of PNSW, electronic payment, and electronic verification and tagging of import and export permits/clearances by Customs.
To date, 17,927 registered traders use the PNSW system with 1,282,746 processed transactions. Electronic viewing and tagging of cargo import/export permits and clearances have initially been rolled out to the Manila International Container Port and Port of Manila. The Sugar Regulatory Administration and National Telecommunications Commission have launched the PNSW ePayment Module via the ATM payment gateway.
Electronic Air Way Bill (e-AWB)
During a recent executive briefing to Philippine airfreight industry stakeholders, an International Air Transport Association (IATA) official noted the e-AWB falls under the IATA e-freight program designed to optimize information processing, and improve delivery times, inventory levels, customs compliance and market share gains of the global airfreight industry.
The AWB is a critical air cargo document that constitutes the contract of carriage between the shipper (forwarder) and carrier (airline). The new e-AWB recommended practice (e-AWB RP1670) removes the requirement for a paper AWB, significantly simplifying the air freight supply chain process. With the e-AWB, there is no longer a need to print, handle or archive the paper AWB.
IATA targets for e-AWB are the following:
– 2010: e-AWB piloted in 8 countries
– 2011: 6% e-AWB penetration
– 2012: 20% e-AWB penetration
– 2013: 30% e-AWB penetration
– 2014: 70% e-AWB penetration
– 2015: 100% e-AWB penetration
Integrated Philippine Customs System (i-PCS)
During a presentation made by Deputy Commissioner for MISTG Maria Caridad P. Manarang during the Philippine Maritime Law Annual Conference 2012 organized by the Maritime Law Association of the Philippines with PortCalls, i-PCS was defined as a “new customs system” that will replace e2m.
Last January 4, BOC issued an invitation for interested parties to apply for eligibility for the development and implementation of i-PCS. This project has an approved budget of P500 million. According to BOC, awarding of the contract to the selected bidder is targeted on March 22, 2013.
Leo V. Morada is a domain expert on IT applications in Philippine port operations with 25 years senior IT management experience implementing technology solutions in port operations, electronic transactions with customs & port authority, and air/sea port community system applications. He is CEO of Cargo Data Exchange Center, Inc, a customs-accredited value-added service provider. He can be contacted at lmorada3f1@yahoo.com).
