BOC-MICP closed, transactions online after staff tests positive for COVID-19

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The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Manila International Container Port (MICP) building is closed until further notice for disinfection as an employee tested positive for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the BOC said in a statement on March 24, 2020.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero in a memorandum directed unaffected offices of MICP to function normally; these include vessel boarding, examination of goods and x-ray examination.

All MICP importation will continue to be processed by its personnel and employees. Stakeholders are advised to use the Customer Care Portal (CCP) to submit their documents and process their transactions, and to use the Goods Declaration and Verification System (GDVS) to monitor the status of their shipments.

The CCP and GDVS are both accessible through the official Customs website. This BOC Portal is a pilot project aimed to streamline BOC operations and automate its processes. The utilization of online platform is also directed to augment MICP’s work from home arrangement for some of its key personnel.

As a complementary workforce, Guerrero instructed the Port of Manila to assist MICP personnel, while the disinfection of the building is underway.

BOC is implementing a contigency plan in keeping with Department of Health guidelines and is disinfecting the entire MICP building. The bureau also continues to conduct contact tracing on its personnel.

Those identified that had direct contact with the affected personnel were advised to self-quarantine and will be closely monitored by the Internal Administration Group.

“Together with other frontliners, the Bureau of Customs continues to remain true to its commitment to serve by ensuring the steady flow of goods and supplies while maintaining the welfare of its personnel. Thus, the BOC appeals for the public’s understanding and support during these trying times,” the agency said.