A joint administrative order aimed at easing port congestion and regulating cargo handling charges is expected to be signed by August, ahead of the seasonal buildup of cargo volumes.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the order will give the agency the power to coordinate government efforts in addressing port congestion, once signed by the departments of Finance, Trade and Industry, and Transportation.
The order is expected to be in place before the usual October surge in shipments, as port congestion has been driven by both infrastructure constraints and operational issues, including limited container yards, narrow access roads, and the lack of discipline among some shipping lines and importers.
One proposal to increase container storage fees inside ports has been put forward, but the Customs Commissioner noted that this remains under the Philippine Ports Authority's jurisdiction and would require the joint administrative order to manage the entire congestion issue.
The proposed JAO will give the Customs agency the legal authority to manage congestion and review charges imposed on truckers and importers to a limited extent, with the aim of directing other concerned agencies in solving the problem.
However, the Commissioner emphasized that while the JAO would lay down an immediate framework, legislation would offer a more permanent solution, as administrative orders can be reversed.
Additionally, the Customs agency is moving forward with its new Customs Processing System, with a contract award expected following a review of revised proposals.
The new system aims to minimize human intervention and has been scheduled for pilot testing in June 2027, with the Port of Subic among the initial ports being considered for testing.
Separately, the Customs agency has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to strengthen border security and customs enforcement.
Under the agreement, a Joint Coordination Committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the MoU, serving as the primary policy and oversight body.
