AFTER visiting the Bureau of Customs – Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) to inspect rice shipments following reports of port congestion due to delays in the releases, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez urged rice importers to expedite the release of tax-paid shipments and promptly pull out their shipments to ensure adequate rice supply and avoid potential price hikes.
Romualdez also warned called on them to refrain from illegal hoarding activities lest face the full force of the law, as he conducted an inspection along with ACT-CIS Party-List Representatives Cong. Erwin T. Tulfo and Cong. Edvic G. Yap.
During the said inspection, BOC Commissioner Bienvenido YRubio clarified that there is no port congestion and that all shipments have been cleared by Customs, addressing concerns that have circulated recently.
Rubio further emphasized that the delays are not caused by port-related issues but simply the practice of importers in maximizing the 30-day allowable period to claim their shipments upon settlement of customs duties and taxes due thereon.
The Commissioner also assured that the BOC is fully committed in facilitating the prompt release of rice shipments, working diligently to prevent disruptions in the rice supply chain and curtail illegal hoarding activities.
The House Speaker commended the BOC for its efforts and vigilance in monitoring rice imports.
The BOC said it fully supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to ensure a stable supply of consumer goods and maintain affordable prices for Filipino people, reinforcing the government’s commitment in safeguarding the nation’s food security.
