ONE of the biggest factors affecting how quickly new vehicles reach Philippine dealerships has nothing to do with factories or shipping lines. It happens at the country’s ports, where imported vehicles and components undergo customs clearance before they can be distributed nationwide.
That made the Bureau of Customs’ (BOC) presence at the 10th Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS) more than a ceremonial appearance. It highlighted the growing importance of efficient customs processing as automakers work to shorten delivery times, improve inventory, and meet increasing market demand.
During the event, the Chamber of Automotive Manufacturers of the Philippines Inc. (Campi) recognized the BOC’s Port of Batangas for its continuing support in facilitating the release of imported vehicles and automotive parts.
Led by District Collector Carmelita Manahan Talusan, the Batangas port has become one of the country’s primary automotive gateways, handling shipments for several major vehicle manufacturers operating in the Philippines.
For car companies, faster customs clearance means vehicles and parts spend less time at the port and reach dealerships sooner. It also helps manufacturers maintain healthier inventories and avoid supply disruptions, particularly as competition in the local automotive market continues to intensify.
Talusan said the Port of Batangas continues to streamline customs procedures in line with the BOC’s efforts to improve trade facilitation, operational efficiency, and transparency while maintaining effective border protection and revenue collection. She added that the bureau remains committed to ensuring the timely release of shipments to support the continued growth of the Philippine automotive industry.
The importance of that collaboration was further reflected in a meeting between Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corp. (MMPC) President and CEO Ritsu Imaeda, Talusan, and Department of Trade and Industry-Board of Investments (DTI-BOI) Executive Director Corazon Halili-Dichosa during the motor show.
The Port of Batangas serves as a key gateway for MMPC’s imported vehicles and production components. Efficient customs processing plays a significant role in keeping the company’s supply chain moving and ensuring dealers receive vehicles on schedule.
MMPC also continues to work closely with the DTI-BOI as it aligns its long-term investments with the government’s automotive development programs, including plans to begin local production of hybrid electric vehicles.
Present during the recognition were Campi President Jose Maria “Jing” Atienza, Campi Vice President lawyer Rhys Alexei Murillo of Nissan Philippines, Department of Energy-Energy Utilization Management Bureau Director Patrick Aquino, Campi Corporate Secretary Robert Carlos of Isuzu Philippines, Campi Treasurer Victor Vinarao of MMPC, Federation of Automotive Industries of the Philippines President Vicente Mills Jr. of Hino Motors Philippines, Campi Government Relations Head Jasmin Nagera, BOC Deputy Collector for Assessment Julius Altiche, and Campi Assistant Treasurer lawyer Louie Soriano of Honda Cars Philippines.
While vehicle launches often take center stage at motor shows, the industry’s ability to move vehicles efficiently from port to showroom is equally important. The continued cooperation between the Bureau of Customs and the automotive industry reflects a shared goal of making the country’s vehicle supply chain faster, more efficient, and better prepared to meet growing consumer demand.
ANJO PEREZ