BOC launches i-Declare system for online baggage and currency declarations

Photo from the Bureau of Customs

MANILA, Philippines — Travelers now have the option to complete their baggage and currency declarations online after the Bureau of Customs (BOC) launched the “i-Declare system” to modernize the agency.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said Thursday that the new system seeks to streamline and digitalize BOC’s baggage and currency declaration process.

“Automating the decades-old manual filing is another effort to modernize the Bureau, with the intention of integrating it with other government agencies for a more encompassing approach in providing the public with one-stop-shop service for all the governments’ clearance requirements,” Guerrero said in a statement.

Under the i-Declare system unveiled on June 29, passengers can complete their declaration online, in the comfort of their homes before flying, or even while en route to the Philippines.

But travelers who may not be able to do so can still accomplish the forms at i-Declare kiosks stationed at the Customs Area of the country’s ports.

Initially, however, i-Declare kiosks were set up at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1. According to Guerrero, more kiosks will be set up in other international airports in the coming months.

The BOC said the country is the first in the ASEAN to implement a combined electronic Customs Baggage and Currencies Declaration system and the third in ASEAN to implement an electronic Customs Baggage and Currencies Declaration system. — Iliana Padigos, INQUIRER.net intern

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