BoC digitalizes car import payments

THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) has launched a new electronic certificate of payment (e-CP) system, fully digitalizing most transactions related to vehicle registration as part of efforts to fast track and modernize government processes.

The new e-CP will facilitate automated and real-time submission, processing, and transmission of motor vehicle, components, and parts information, together with the corresponding duties and taxes paid, from the BoC to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

“The new e‑CP significantly reduces processing time, strengthens data integrity, and improves service delivery for both government agencies and industry stakeholders,” BoC said in a statement on Tuesday.

This was designed to replace the previous system, which involved manual verification and separate processing of the two agencies.

“The new e‑CP system is a clear demonstration of the bureau’s commitment to modernization and whole‑of‑government collaboration,” Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said in a speech during the platform’s launch on Monday. “By automating validation, eliminating redundant processes, and ensuring real‑time data exchange with the LTO, we are making customs transactions faster, more secure, and more transparent for our stakeholders.”

According to the BoC, the new system will permit automatic validation of payment records and single administrative document details by integrating the e-CP into the bureau’s electronic‑to‑mobile system.

Stakeholders can now also track their e-CP application status in real-time under the new platform.

It likewise provides automatic updates on registered license plates and other vehicle registration details using a feedback mechanism with the LTO’s land transportation management system.

“This closed‑loop integration ensures accuracy, traceability, and improved monitoring of motor vehicle importation transactions — addressing longstanding issues associated with manual reconciliation under the previous system,” the BoC said. — Katherine K. Chan