Manila, March 19, 2026 – The Mactan Export Processing Zone Chamber of Exporters and Manufacturers (MEPZCEM) actively participated in the CICAC Annual General Assembly held in Manila, joining industry leaders and government agencies in reaffirming their commitment to customs modernization, transparency, and efficiency.
A centerpiece of the event was the ceremonial pledge to the Manifesto of Support, symbolizing collective endorsement of reforms designed to streamline trade processes, reduce costs, and strengthen accountability across the supply chain.
Key Highlights from the Assembly:
- Electronic Certificate of Payment (ECP) System – Digitization of vehicle import payments and registration data, integrated with LTO’s LTMS for faster, more secure registration and expanded coverage for replacement parts.
- Digital Transformation: e2m → CPS – Transition to a modern, cloud-ready Customs Processing System, reducing clearance time from 2–7 days to less than 24 hours and cutting container transaction costs by 98%. Full rollout by March 2028.
- Transparency & Engagement Initiatives – Updates on the Isumbong Kay Commissioner reporting platform (109 reports received, 93 resolved) launched December 2025; and progress toward institutionalizing CICAC as a permanent consultative body.
- Port Congestion in Manila – Consultative meetings identified root causes such as container yard bottlenecks and delayed reexports. Way forward includes accrediting off-dock yards, deploying electronic monitoring systems (Automated Container Movement Monitoring System, Customs Container Management System, ITAMSS), and issuing proactive orders to mitigate congestion during peak season.
- Draft Customs Administrative Order (CAO) – Proposal for automatic renewal of compliant importers, extending accreditation validity from one to three years and reducing AMO requirements. Draft CAO is now under DOF review.
- ATA Carnet System Implementation – Facilitating duty-free temporary admission of goods for exhibitions and trade events. In two years, 754 shipments were processed, with next steps focusing on operational gaps and wider adoption.
- Valuation Committees per Industry – Establishment of technical working groups (TWGs) to improve valuation accuracy through targeted consultations, structured engagement, and industry-specific references.
- Policy Discussions – Ongoing deliberations on cargo clearance delays caused by other agencies and the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) addressing local charges imposed by shipping lines, brokers, and logistics operators.
MEPZCEM’s participation underscored its proactive role in supporting reforms that enhance competitiveness, reduce trade costs, and foster stronger collaboration between government and industry.
MEPZCEM stands united with the Customs Industry Consultative Advisory Council (CICAC) in driving reforms that empower exporters, strengthen transparency, and build a more competitive Philippine trade ecosystem.
