Customs awards computerization project consultancy

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THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently awarded the consultancy job for its P500-million computerization project to Pacific Consultants International Philippines, Inc.

The bureau signed the contract last week, BOC deputy commissioner for Management Information System Alexander Arevalo said in an interview.

“The budget for computerization was approved as early as March. We are hoping that the project will be on track after this. The consultant will help us avail of the P500 million, hopefully, by end of the year,” he said.

Arevalo explained the project, which will start January 2005 until third quarter of the same year, comprises four components, including the upgrade and expansion of the bureau’s existing import system and the automation of the export system.

It will improve the existing Automated Export Documentation System, resulting in the seamless integration of import and export processes. “The proposed automated export processing will allow for raw materials liquidation,” he said.

Also part of the computerization project is the Single Window System that will facilitate inter-agency linkage. Through this system, Arevalo said there will be single submission of all the documents required and synchronized decision-making in the processing of customs clearance.

The single window system will link all the concerned government agencies to BOC such as the Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority, National Food Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Transportation and Communications and the Department of Trade and Industry.

Arevalo is currently the chairman of the Association of South East Asian Nations Single Window Project Committee. “We are hoping to develop the model by end of 2005,” he noted.

The last component of the computerization project is office automation or the internal systems mprovement. – Maritess R. Mesias