Customs, DHL team up for anti-smuggling drive

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Customs has tied up with DHL Group, the country’s largest courier service, in a first-of-its-kind public-private partnership that aims to counter smuggling.

In a statement on Friday, Customs said it has signed a memorandum of understanding with DHL that will cover exchange of information and consultation on shipments between the two entities.

It also includes DHL providing technical assistance to Customs to “upgrade” the capability of Customs personnel on tracking deliveries in and out of the country.

In return, the agency vowed increased efficiency on clearance of air consignments.

“It is important that we build harmonious partnership with our trusted stakeholders in order to implement positive change in the bureau…,” Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina was quoted as saying.

Sought for details, Customs public affairs chief Rossbelle Arceno said in a text message Customs is “looking to partner with other carriers as well.”

Arceno said DHL was chosen because it has been working closely and proactively with Customs on improving trade facilitation.

While official data was not readily available, Customs said DHL accounts for bulk of parcel and cargo shipments into the country.

According to its website, the Germany-based global courier has more than 200 outlets in over 100 cities and provinces nationwide. It said it employs around 400 employees locally.

In 2008, DHL said it handled 4,888 tons of air freight in the Philippines. Latest data was not readily available.

“This collaboration between (Customs) and DHL respects the mandate of the former to deter smuggling of contrabands, prohibited drugs, firearms and other goods that pose menace to the security, health and well-being of society,” the statement read.

Customs, which traditionally accounts for a fifth of state revenues, collected P32.5 billion in October, a 5-percent drop from last year’s P34.2 billion.

This brought the 10-month haul to P300.7 billion, up by 0.3 percent year-on-year, Bureau of the Treasury data showed.

Lina had earlier resigned from hitting this year’s collection target of P436.59 billion.