INFOGRAPHIC: Revamping the Bureau of Customs

A reset button.
 
This was how President Benigno Aquino III described the upcoming revamp of the Bureau of Customs, which has been perceived as one of the most corrupt agencies of government.

On Wednesday, the Aquino administration showed via an infographic published on www.gov.ph how the reforms at the BoC will be done.
 
During his fourth State of the Nation Address last July, Aquino lashed out at the officials of the bureau saying that his patience had run out. BoC chief Ruffy Biazon immediately offered his resignation, but the President did not accept his offer.
 
Among the controversies that hounded the BoC during the Aquino administration is rice smuggling, which led to a Senate blue ribbon committee investigation.

Another issue is that of missing container vans, which caused the ouster of former Customs Commissioner Angelito Alvarez.
 
As part of the BOC facelift, Biazon on Monday transferred 27 Level 5 and Level 6 collectors to the Customs Policy Research Office, under the auspices of the Finance Department.
 
This move included the reassignment of the Customs’ so-call “Three Kings” namely Ricardo Belmonte, head of the Manila International Container Port (MICP); Rogel Gatchalian, head of the Port of Manila; and Carlos So, head of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). These officials purportedly had the most powerful backers.
 
Earlier, the Palace announced the President has appointed new officials to five crucial Customs posts. --Rouchelle R. Dinglasan/KG, GMA News
 
INFOGRAPHIC: The Bureau of Customs Reform Project