BOC-Davao inaugurates designated examination area in DICT

• The Bureau of Customs-Port of Davao and Davao International Container Terminal recently inaugurated a designated examination area

• Located in the DICT terminal in Panabo, Davao del Norte, the DEA enables simultaneous inspection of 12 containers, streamlining the cargo examination process

• The facility features a designated stripping area to safeguard imported goods from exposure to external elements during examination

• A dedicated office space has also been allocated for customs examiners, cargo owners and representatives from various regulatory agencies

The Bureau of Customs-Port of Davao (BOC-Davao) and Davao International Container Terminal (DICT) unveiled on January 31 a designated examination area (DEA) at the latter’s Panabo, Davao del Norte facility.

BOC-Davao officer-in-charge Maita Acevedo in a statement emphasized the importance of the new DEA, highlighting its role in streamlining cargo inspections.

Prior to the establishment of the DEA, examinations were conducted in the yard. At the request of BOC-Davao, DICT set up the DEA and equipped it for seamless operations.

The DEA is designed to facilitate simultaneous examination of 12 containers, significantly expediting the cargo inspection process. Notably, the facility includes a designated stripping area to safeguard imported goods from exposure to external elements during the examination.

To ensure smooth operations, a dedicated office space has been allocated within the DEA for customs examiners, cargo owners, and representatives from various regulatory agencies. The initiative aims to enhance collaboration among stakeholders involved in the inspection process, fostering improved communication and coordination.

BOC-Davao said the DEA also prioritizes security measures, with a specific resting area for K-9 sniffing dogs, aligning with international standards for cargo security.

In an advisory on January 30, DICT announced that starting February 1, containers subject to physical inspection by BOC-Davao will be directed to the DEA.

Additionally, DICT provided details regarding the DEA rates, including a standard fee of P4,300 per container, along with additional charges for stripping and stuffing, forklift rental, and plug-in.

BOC-Davao said the introduction of the DEA at DICT represents a significant leap forward in enhancing customs operations, underscoring the commitment to improving efficiency, compliance, and security in handling imported shipments.

READ: Designated examination area in DICT eyed