Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines

March 2-4, 2015

CUSTOMS BROKERS: THEIR VITAL ROLE IN MEDIATING

TRANSACTIONS BETWEEN SELECTED IMPORTERS
IN METRO MANILA AND THE
BUREAU OF CUSTOMS
Catherine B. Pastor1*, Jaworski G. Nieva2**, and Francis Leonard T. Palomares3***
14th

Year, BS Customs Administration Student, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Pasay City
Year, BS Customs Administration Student, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Pasay City
34th Year, BS Customs Administration Student, Asian Institute of Maritime Studies, Pasay City
*catherinepastor0813@gmail.com
**jaworskinieva03@ymail.com
***palomares.francis@yahoo.com
24th

Abstract: This study looks at the vital role of Customs Brokers in mediating
transactions between importers and the Bureau of Customs. To clearly assess the
vitality of their role, this study investigates their importance in trade facilitation,
prevention of technical smuggling and securing the revenue collection of the
government. The study employed 74 Bureau of Customs representatives and 95
selected importers in Metro Manila as respondents. Descriptive method was utilized
using questionnaires to gather data. Percentage was employed for the profile of the
respondents; weighted mean using a Five-Point Likert scale to determine the level of
importance of the Customs Brokers; T-Test of Independent or Uncorrelated Means is
applied in assessing the significant difference on the perceptions of the two groups of
respondents.
The study revealed that most of the BOC respondents are from the Formal
Entry Division (44.1%) and Assessment Division (37.8%). Most of them are regular
personnel (98.6%) of the Bureau holding positions as Customs Officers (44.6%) and
Examiners (43.2%) with 7 years and beyond experience in the industry (81.1%). On
the other hand, majority of the importer respondents are regular employees (82.1%)
who came from the Logistics Department (49.5%) of the importing companies with
position as staffs (61.1%) and having 1-3 years of experience in the industry (38.9%).
The BOC respondents reveal that generally, Customs Brokers are very important
(4.44) in facilitating trade; very important (4.47) in the prohibition of technical
smuggling and very important (4.35) in securing the revenue collection of the
government. On the other hand, the selected importers have an overall appraisal
that customs brokers are very important (4.46) in trade facilitation; very important
(4.36) in the obstruction of technical smuggling in any form and also very important
(4.26) in the security of governments revenue and income.
The BOC representatives and importers have the same perceptions on the
importance of the customs brokers in mediating transactions in terms of trade
facilitation and preventing the occurrence of technical smuggling. However, they
have different perceptions on the importance of the Customs Brokers in mediating
transactions in terms of securing the revenue collection of the government.
Nevertheless, Customs Brokers are very vital in mediating transactions between the
BOC and importers. At the most, they are very crucial and essential in the field they
serve.
Keywords:

EBM-II-015

Customs Brokers; role; transactions; importers; Bureau of Customs

1
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

1. THE PROBLEM
1.1 Introduction
In 2013, United States of America set $2,294
billion of imports, Myanmar reached an all time high
of 1824.80 USD Million, and in the Philippines, the
final value of total imports was US$62,411 million.
No country is self-sufficient indeed. Every countrydeveloped, under-developed or developing looks into
importation of goods to suffice deficiencies on its
territory. Likewise, it satisfies the quoted adage of
John Donne, No man is an island.
Due to this sheer magnitude of goods and
huge volume of importations which cross the
Philippine borders annually, one of the main reasons
for hiring a customs broker is to free up the
importer's time in clearing the imported goods
through Bureau of Customs custody which generate
and ensure the revenue of the government from the
imported articles, suppress smuggling in forms of
misdeclaration, undervaluation and misclassification
as well as seize contrabands.
In view of this, the study was pursued to
know and evaluate the extent of importance of the
role customs brokers in negotiating crucial
transactions. Therefore, this study looked at the
customs brokerage activity and its vital role in
facilitating undertakings between the importers and
Bureau of Customs who has reciprocal influence with
each other.

1.2 Background of the Study

Customs broker is any person who is bona
fide
holder
of
a
valid
Certificate
of
Registration/Professional Identification Card issued
by the Professional Regulatory Board and
Professional Regulation Commission (R.A. 9280, Sec.
4a) and customs broker profession involves services
consist of consultation, preparation of customs
requisite document for imports and exports,
declaration of customs duties and taxes, preparation
signing, filing, lodging and processing of import and
export entries representing importers and exporters
before any government agency and private entities in
cases related to valuation and classification of
imported articles and rendering of other professional
services in matters relating to customs and tariff
laws its procedures and practices. A customs broker
shall be considered in the practices of the profession
if the nature and character of his/her employment in
private enterprises requires professional knowledge
in the field of customs and tariff administration.

EBM-II-015

He/she is also deemed in the practice of custom

Broker profession if he/she teaches customs and tariff
administration subjects in any university, college or
school duly recognized by the government. (Sec. 6,
R. A. No. 9280). This clearly identifies the functions
as well as role of the customs brokers in trade and
cargo clearance facilitation and even in the field of
academe.
On the other hand, importers are the party
bringing in the goods and the goods from foreign
country brought into a jurisdiction, especially across
the border of the Philippines which is called an
import. Importers are the ones who make the
importations, and who are liable for the payment of
duties and taxes levied on the imported goods.
Normally, they are named either as the consignee in
the shipping documents and or as the buyer in the
exporter`s invoice.
The Bureau of Customs, nonetheless, is
under the supervision of Department of Finance
which has the mission to assess and collect lawful
revenues efficiently; to effectively curb illicit trade
and all forms of customs fraud; to facilitate trade in a
secured manner; to implement relevant technology
for an efficient and effective customs management
aligned with the international customs best
practices; and to promote professionalism and
integrity in the service.
In the Philippines, traditionally, importers
rely on customs brokers to pull the necessary
information together and clear the goods through
customs. In order to avoid costly delays, fines and
even seizure of goods, the broker must have a firm
grasp of foreign and domestic shipping procedures,
customs laws and restrictions for certain
commodities. They untangle the maze associated
with various government regulations and liaison
with the BOC to expedite the flow of documentations
and release of the cargo.

1.3 Local Literature

Customs Brokers: Tossed by Issues. From
the Philippine Star, Anonymous (2014) informed the
public that the Bureau of Customs suspended the
accreditation of 115 of importers and customs
brokers who have repeatedly violated Customs
policies and procedures in filing import documents.
Additional issue reported by Almonte (2014)
that Phoenix Petroleum was alleged on oil smuggling
and the controversial 1,700 containers of imported
goods vanishing in thin air while being trucked to
Batangas City. Customs brokers were linked to the

2
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

said controversies and alleged to have participation

in smuggling.
The above report made by an Anonymous
and Almonte has relevance to the present study
because this is one of the problems encountered by
customs brokers by not conforming to the rules and
regulations enforced by the government. Importers
and brokers habitually failed to disclose the detailed
descriptions of the imported articles. Failure to
provide detailed information about the goods is a
form
of
technical
smuggling,
specifically
misdeclaration that intends to lower the customs
duties and taxes charged to the imported products
averting the target revenue collection of the Bureau.
Tabirara (2014) stated that every time an
importer is charged with smuggling, the broker is
usually included. Sometimes, importers are
misleading them on the facts and value of the goods
being imported and yet pressed the customs brokers
to clear it as soon as possible. Notwithstanding,
smuggling is not just happening with the joint
participation of the customs brokers and importers.
There are however, smugglers who know who to talk
and there are also customs employees who allow
negotiation Alex (2014).
The statements of Tabirara and Alex are
connected to the present study because these are
contributory factors of the tarnished image of the
customs brokers which was frequently cited corrupt
that limits the nations development ambitions and
desires. On the point of Tabirara, he argued that
brokers dont really want to be in the bad light, but it
happened for the fulfilment of duties to their clients.
For the realization of their duties to the importers to
clear the importations as fast as possible, they are
forced down to be in bad situation. On the disclosure
of Alex, he is saying that smuggling also occurs
because the people working inside the government
agency permit it to happen. They adopt the underthe-table transactions and accepts large amount of
money from the brokers or importers just to tolerate
the fast and immediate clearance smuggled
importations.
Customs brokers admit they have been hit
by recent reports of colleagues being linked to
smuggling (Almonte, 2014), yet there are still
importers and customs brokers who are true to their
businesses. Pablo (2014) reported the top customs
broker and importer (as cited in government data
portal, 2013) in terms of volume of imports and paid
the highest duties and taxes. The biggest importer
by volume was Petron Corporation who imported
22.307 billion kilograms and processed P178.905
billion worth of CIF (Cost, Insurance and Freight); it
paid P902.205 million in customs duties while

EBM-II-015

Fedelina Pascua, one of the oil giants brokers topped

the list.
The statement of Almonte and the report of
Pablo have direct bearing to the current research
because it is being implied that there are still
companies and brokers who comply with the proper
exposure of the details of the imported articles and
payment of the right duties and taxes levied on goods
imported. Customs brokers are effective in the
processing of importations and their role should not
be underestimated. Further, their services not just
beneficial to the importers in the instantaneous cargo
facilitation but they also can secure the collection of
the Bureau of Customs through correct assessment of
the duties and taxes.
The Challenged Profession. Due to the gross
mistakes made by some customs brokers which
created negative public perception about their role in
trade facilitation, Almonte (2014) said that this lead
to the national outrage that the fuelled law (Customs
Modernization and Tariff Act) makers push for a
revamp of the Customs and Tariff Act.
The article of Almonte has relationship to
the study of the researchers because the CMTA or
the proposed modernization has direct impact to the
role of the customs broker. The government sees the
call
to
modernize
the
law
on
Customs
Administration.
Further, due to Philippines
accession to RKC, it is compelled to update and
review the existing trade framework and policies of
the country paralleled to the harmonized
international customs procedures. But it would apt
to diminish or the worst is eliminating the important
role played by the customs broker in the facilitation
of trade by allowing the importers to make entry and
declare their imported articles.
From the published article, the proposition
acquired collective resistance from the customs
brokers. We are waging a battle because we are
affected (Tabirara, 2014).
The argument of Tabirara has an affiliation
to the present study because it stressed out the
concern of Customs brokers to fight and secure their
learned profession. They studied for 4 years just to
practice the brokerage services and passing the
examination is never been easy as eating peanuts as
he expressed that out of 4000 graduates of the
Customs Administration course yearly, only 300 to
400 pass the examination. So, it is unjust to
diminish their role because of the modernization.
Customs Administration is difficult and complex that
even importers and ordinary persons are not capable
of doing without the knowledge on customs
administration.

3
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

They could hardly or cannot assess and

compute precise duties and taxes on imports as
accurately as a licensed customs broker could
perform like Singhco (2013) argued that a customs
broker is unequally knowledgeable individual in
dealing with Tariff and Customs matters.
The
matters
governing
customs
administration, like puzzle is complicated and
covered with technical and legal knowledge that only
customs brokers could understand as well as solve.
After all, in a published article, (Maala,
2013) believed that customs brokers are vital to the
supply chain.
Maalas statement jives to the present
research because it shows the vital role of the
customs brokers in terms of the distribution and flow
of supplies. As a mediator, they facilitate the flow
and clearance of goods from Bureau of Customs
custody as importers needed them to continuously
run and operate their businesses. Huge volume of
trade enters the Philippine jurisdiction and customs
brokers supply the services to facilitate these goods.
Other people especially the proponents of the CMTA
are not aware of what they are doing in trade
facilitation and they didnt fully understand their
importance in the economy as a whole.

Regulation,
Role,
Duties
and
Responsibilities.
According to the book of Nague

(2005) the primary purpose of regulating the practice

of customs broker profession is to insure that the
customs broker services are to be rendered by
competent and licensed persons in order to promote
public welfare in general and the Philippine economy
in particular.
The book of Nague correlates to the current
work because it directly pertains to profession of the
customs brokers. The profession requires mental or
intellectual skills which will be tested through
examination and to be competent, the customs broker
must passed it. Customs brokers are knowledgeable
about the goods entering the Philippine borders and
they know the classifications or types of
importations. They can easily distinguish what
imported articles would harm the people and the
nation itself. In addition, in terms of the Philippine
economy, they ease trade facilitation. Hence, they
contribute to the fast supply of the goods needed by
the country.
Carlos discussed in a book that customs
brokers (as cited in Dascil, 2004) are little known in
the economy but in the field of international trade
they are the hub of importers playing a vital role in
the movement and flow of foreign trade.
The discussion of Carlos has connection to
the present study because it also showcased the

EBM-II-015

importance of the customs brokers in providing

communication between the importers and the
government.
They are the link between the
importers and the government to collaborate and
fulfil the customs requisites to equalize the supply
and demand and at the same time contribute to the
collection of revenue of the Bureau of Customs.
There
are
additional
duties
and
responsibilities customs broker play. From the book
of Dascil (2004), he stated that it is a role and
responsibility of a customs broker to ensure that the
client will comply with the rules and regulations. He
has to make sure that the importer shall not produce
false and misleading information before the Bureau
of Customs. As a representative of the importer
before the government agency, he/she must convey
the necessary documents regarding the importation
in conformity to the existing policies. Omission of
factual and essential information may be considered
smuggling; therefore a custom broker should warrant
that all necessary details will be exposed.
A customs broker or his representative shall
not influence or attempt to influence the conduct of
any BOC official or employee of the BOC in any
matter pending (Dascil, 2004). Just to hasten the
process, some brokers offer special inducements to
the BOC officials in the form of gifts, valuables and
even money. This should not be practiced by customs
brokers.
Do not accept the notion that the
kalakaran is the way it has always been and the
way it will always be (Biazon, 2009). Walk on the
right path, work with etiquette and spurn the ways
of kalakaran. Customs brokers should possess high
self-discipline to free themselves from illegal
practices.
The book of Dascil and the statement of
Biazon relate to the study of the researchers because
ethics must be conformed in doing the brokerage
profession.
As Governments Partner.
In his
sponsorship speech, Senator Pimentel (2003)
conveyed, the customs broker profession is an
indispensable partner of the Bureau of Customs.
The speech of Senator Pimentel has direct
association to the present study because the role of
customs brokers is beneficial to the government.
They help the government specifically, the Bureau of
Customs in collecting the right amount of duties and
taxes through proper valuation, classification and
taxing of imported goods. Reaching the target of
revenue collection, customs brokers also aid in
upholding the interest of the government from the
imported articles crossing the Philippine borders.

4
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

1.4 Foreign Literature

Customs Brokers: In Trade Facilitation. In
United States, according to Giermanski and
Giermanski (2014) importers, even the smaller ones
are continuing to use third parties to provide services
on clearing cargoes and from the belief of Lee (2013),
customs brokers play an important role in the supply
chain.
Like the previous justifications, the above
statements of Giermanski and Giermanski as well as
Lee which were generated from articles have
something to do with the present study. Customs
broker is one of the third parties mentioned
empowered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection
(CBP) to assist importers to meet the Federal
requirements governing the imports. Due to limited
knowledge on policies and regulations, importing
companies, big or small, employ a broker rather that
doing the import entries, still it is not mandatory.
Through this, they can ensure that trade transaction
will be managed well.
Opposing Views. Fortlage (2011) reiterate
to his article, The Role of the Customs Broker in the
Import Transactions, that in order to avoid problems
in the import transactions, it is vital to choose a
broker with care, to understand the importers
relationship with the broker, and to understand the
brokers role in the transaction.
The article of Fortlage has importance to the current
study because having harmonious relationship
between a customs broker and an importer is
essential in the performance of a role. Customs
brokers are the partners of the importers in the
success of business. The sectors work hand in hand
to attain their business goals. Its like choosing a gas
station when ones automobile needs refuelling.
Forlage pointed out that with the type of
responsibility entrusted to a broker, (as cited in Lee,
2009) extreme care should be taken in not only
choosing the broker but also in working with the
broker.
But, on the other hand, despite the justification of
the relevance of the existence of the customs brokers,
other people or industries realize their failures in
enhancing the value of services. Some importers
elect the do-it-yourself process of direct filing the
majority of their entries with customs (Anonymous,
2011) to be free from any error. Since they know the
information regarding the importations they made,
they rather take care of the preparations and
processing of the entries.
Whether or not an importer should utilize a customs
broker primarily depends upon the amount of the
imports the importer will have and the number of

EBM-II-015

expertise of its own personnel (Johnson and Bade,

2010).
Both explained that if the importer or importing
company can provide the sufficient personnel with
significant expertise, these people can be trained to
handle the job of importing procedures and
documentation. Hence, hiring a customs broker is
not necessary. But, on the other hand, if the
importers lack enough personnel and knowledge,
they are expected to tap the services of customs
brokers.

1.5 Statement of the Problem

Given the ongoing push to modernize
customs administration, this have stimulated the
researchers to conduct a study on the vital role of
customs brokers in mediating transactions between
importers and the Bureau of Customs. It identified
the functions of a customs broker, customs brokerage
profession and services for the purpose of assessing
the importance of customs brokers in cargo
facilitation, prevention of technical smuggling and
securing government revenue collection.
The study intended to answer the following
questions:
1.
What is the profile of the respondent
importers
and
Bureau
of
Customs
representatives in terms of:
1.1 Profession/Work;
1.2 Department;
1.3 Position;
1.4 Years of experience;
1.5 Employment Status?
2. As perceived by the selected importers and
the BOC representatives, how important is the
role of customs brokers in mediating
transactions in terms of:
2.1 Trade Facilitation;
2.2 Prevention of Technical Smuggling;
2.3
Securing
Government
Revenue
Collection?
3. Is there a significant difference on the views
of the two groups of respondents with regards to
the importance of the customs brokers roles in
mediating transactions?

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study focused on the vital role of
customs brokers in mediating transactions between
the importers and the Bureau of Customs. This
research was conducted to examine as well as
evaluate how important is the role of customs
brokers in terms of mediating in cargo facilitation
between the carrier of the imported goods and the

5
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

BOC. The words how important served as a

reference point in determining the extent of vitality
at which the role of customs broker lies. The study
had the following groups of respondents; selected
importers in Metro Manila and the Bureau of
Customs representatives in Bureau of Customs
(BOC) - NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport),
Bureau of Customs (BOC) - Port of Manila and BOCManila International Container Port (MICP) who has
direct contact as well as transactions to the customs
brokers. The research started last June 2014 and
completed on October 2014, within 4 months, a
period which is not long enough to allow prompt
detailed outcome undertaken in helping and guiding
the beneficiaries of this study.
The study was limited only to the importers
in Metro Manila and the Bureau of Customs
representatives on their respective areas in NAIA,
Port of Manila and MICP.

2. METHODOLOGY
2.1 Research Design
This study adopted the descriptive- survey
research method since it used descriptive design
which was based on the present happenings. Hence,
it used survey questionnaires as principal
instrument, and quantitative technique was adopted
for the study. It involved questionnaire survey of the
selected importers in Metro Manila and Bureau of
Customs employees in their respective designation at
BOC- Port Manila, BOC- Ninoy Aquino International
Airport (NAIA) and BOC- Manila International
Container Port.

2.2 Sample and Sampling Technique

This study is composed of two groups of
respondents- 74 Bureau of Customs representatives
and 95 selected importers.
The first group of
respondent were Bureau of Customs employees in
Port of Manila, Manila International Container Port
and Ninoy Aquino International Airport who have
face-to-face transactions to the customs brokers.
On the other hand, the second group of
respondent is the selected importers from Metro
Manila. These importers came from the employees of
the importing companies or firms who are composed
of EDMI Philippines, Inc., Arkay Energy and
Industrial Corporation, Care Stream Health
Philippines, Inc., GlaxoSmithKline Philippines, Inc.,
DHL
Express,
Rexim
Philippines,
Bhagis
International Trading, Formway Trading and
Services, Inc., Creative Skin and Spa, and Essilor
Philippines who usually have definite and precise

EBM-II-015

connection to the customs broker in processing the

importations.
It utilized the convenience sampling
technique for the survey questionnaires which were
distributed to those respondents who are physically
available during the data gathering of the
researchers.

2.3 Research Instrument

The data for the study were thus collected

using questionnaires. Questionnaire consisting of
mainly structured or closeended questions was used
to collect the primary data for the study. Close-ended
questions were used to provide control over the
participants range of responses by providing specific
response alternatives. Hence, this made it easier to
summarize and analyze the responses.

2.4 Data Gathering Procedure

By the use of convenience sampling method,
the
researchers
personally
gave
out
the
questionnaires to the BOC representatives who have
face-to-face transactions to the customs brokers to fill
and to the selected importers in Metro Manila who
also have direct interaction to the brokers in aiding
and smoothing the progress of the importation. The
researchers personally collected all completed
questionnaires from the BOC employees and
importers at the point where the questionnaires are
administered. After the questionnaires had been
filled out, the researchers ensured that the
respondents answered all relevant and necessary
questions.

2.5 Statistical Treatment

The study used the percentage (%) for the
profile of the respondents- selected importers and
BOC representatives.
The formula is:
Percent =
(f/n) 100
Where:
f
=
n
=
100
=

frequency
total number of the part
constant

The weighted mean was employed from the

generated data concerning the level of importance of
the customs brokers in mediating transactions
between the selected importers in Metro Manila and
the Bureau of Customs.

6
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

The formula for the weighted mean is:

fX____
X=
N
Where: X
=
Weighted mean
fX
=
Sum of the product of the
weighted frequencies
f
=
Sum of the frequencies of
number of respondents
n
=
Population

=
Summation

Table 2. Percentage Distribution of

Respondents in Terms of Department/Division
Department
F
Percentage
Assessment
28
37.8
Division

The measurement for the weighted mean

used the Likert-type Scale with verbal interpretation
as follows:
Table 2.1. Likert-type Scale w/ verbal interpretation

Weight

Range

Verbal Interpretation

(5)
(4)
(3)
(2)
(1)

4.51-5.00
3.51-4.50
2.51-3.50
1.51-2.50
1.00-1.50

Extremely Important
Very Important
Fairly Important
Less Important
Not Important

The researchers also utilized the T-Test of

Independent or Uncorrelated Means. The formula
for the T-Test is:

3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

3.1 The profile of the respondents.
Table 1. Percentage
Distribution
of
the
BOC/Importer
Respondents
in
Terms
of
Profession/Work
BOC
Importers
Profession
F
Percentage
F
Percentage
Government

74

100.00

Private

95

100.00

Total

74

100.00

95

100.00

EBM-II-015

Formal Entry
Division
Informal Entry
Division
Warehousing
Division
Total

40

44.1

1.4

6.8

74

100.0

Table 3. Percentage Distribution

terms of Department/Division
Department
F
Import
21
Logistics
47
Product
1
Purchasing
26
Total
95

BOC

of the Importers in
Percentage
22.1
49.5
1.1
27.4
100.0

Table 4. Percentage Distribution of the

Respondents in Terms of Position
Position
F
Percentage
Acting Chief
1
1.4
Chief
1
1.4
Clerk
1
1.4
Customs Guard
1
1.4
Customs Officer
33
44.6
Examiner
32
43.2
Section Chief
1
1.4
Storekeeper
2
2.7
Wharfinger
2
2.7
Total
74
100.0

BOC

Table 5. Percentage Distribution of the Importers in

Terms of Position
Position
F
Percentage
Coordinator
1
1.1
Manager
20
21.1
Officer
15
15.8
Product Manager
1
1.1
Staff
58
61.1
Total
95
100.0

7
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

Table 6. Percentage Distribution of the

Respondents in Terms of Experience
Years of
F
Percentage
Experience
1 3 years
1
1.4
4 6 years

13

17.6

7 years and above

60

81.1

Total

74

100.0

BOC

3.2 Level of importance of the Customs

Brokers role in mediating transactions.
Table 10.
Mean
Distribution
on
the
Importance of Customs Brokers in Trade Facilitation
Items

Table 7. Percentage Distribution of Importers in

terms of Years of Experience
Years
F
Percentage
1 3 years
37
38.9
4 6 years
23
24.2
7 years & above
35
36.8
Total
95
100.0
Table 8. Percentage Distribution
Status of BOC respondents
Status
F
Contractual
1
Regular
73
Total
74

on the Employment
Percentage
1.4
98.6
100.0

Table 9. Percentage Distribution on the Employment

Status of Importers
Status
F
Percentage
Contractual
8
8.4
Probationary
9
9.5
Regular
78
82.1
Total
95
100.0
The study revealed that respondents were
made up of 74 BOC representatives as well as 95
importers with the sum of 169. It appeared therefore
that all BOC were government personnel and also all
of the importers were engaged in private entities.
The study exhibited that 44.1% of the BOC
respondents were from the Formal Entry Division,
44.6% were customs officers, 81.1% had 7 years and
beyond experience in the industry, and (98.6%) were
all regular personnel of the Bureau; whilst out of 95
importer respondents, 49.5 were from Logistics
Department
consolidating
the
imports
and
maintaining the supply chain management, 61.1%
were staffs, 38.9% have 1-3 years of experience in the
industry, and 82% were regular employees of the

EBM-II-015

company. These percentage distributions of the

profile stated above were the most numbered
respondents who answered the questions.

Preparation
of customs
requisite
documents
for
Declaration
imports
of customs
duties and
taxes
Preparation
of
import
entries
Signing
of
import
entries
Filing
of
import
entries
Lodging of
import
entries
Processing
of
import
entries
Representin
g importers
before
government
and private
entities
Other
professional
services
relating to
customs and
tariff laws
Consultatio
n
Over-All
Mean

BOC

Importers

WM

Interpreta
tion

WM

Interpretat
ion

4.45

Very
Important

4.49

Very
Important

4.54

Extremely
Important

4.54

Extremely
Important

4.42

Very
Important

4.51

Extremely
Important

4.47

Very
Important

4.42

Very
Important

4.47

Very
Important

4.43

Very
Important

4.45

Very
Important

4.36

Very
Important

4.42

Very
Important

4.48

Very
Important

4.41

Very
Important

4.47

Very
Important

4.39

Very
Important

4.49

Very
Important

4.38

Very
Important

4.37

Very
Important

4.44

Very
Important

4.46

Very
Important

8
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

Table 11. Mean Distribution on Importance of

Customs Brokers in Prevention of Technical
Smuggling
Item
BOC
Importers
W
Interpretat W
Interpretat
M
ion
M
ion
1.Misdeclara 4.4 Very
4.3 Very
tion
5
Important
7
Important
2.
Very
Very
Misclassifica
4.4 Important
4.3 Important
tion
9
3
3.
Very
Very
Undervaluat
4.4 Important
4.3 Important
ion
6
7
Overall 4.4 Very
4.3 Very
Mean
7
Important
6
Important
Table 12. Mean Distribution on Importance of
Customs Brokers in Securing Government Revenue
Collection
Item

1.
Ensure
the
collection of the
right amount of
duties and taxes
from the imported
articles
2.
Helps
in
reaching
the
target revenue of
the
Bureau of
Customs
3.Helps in the tax
collection efforts of
the government by
discouraging
smuggling to the
importers
Over-all Mean

BOC
WM

Interpreta
tion
Very
Important

4.36

Importers
WM Interpreta
tion
Very
Important

4.23
Very
Important

4.3

Very
Important

4.39

Very
Important

Table 13. T-test of the Perceptions on the Importance

of the Role of Customs Brokers in Mediating
Transactions by the Selected Importers and BOC
representatives in Terms of Trade Facilitation
Respon
dents

Mean

BOC

10

4.440
0

Importe
rs

10

4.4560

s
.
d
.
0
4
6
9

d.f
.

Comp
uted
t0.669

18

Com
pute
dp
0.32
9

Interpretat
ion

> 0.05
Not
Significant

Table 14. T-test of the Perceptions on the Importance

of the Role of Customs Brokers in Mediating
Transactions by the Selected Importers and BOC
representatives in terms of Prevention of Technical
Smuggling
Respon
dents

N Mean

s.d

BOC

4.4667

.0208
.0231

Importer

4.3567

d.
f.

Co
mp
ute
d t-

Co
mp
ute
dp

Interpretat
ion

0.18
2

0.86
5

> 0.05
Not
Significant

4.29
Very
Important

4.26

Very
Important

BOC employees and importers believed that

customs brokers are very important in trade
facilitation having the overall mean of 4.44 and 4.46
respectively. BOC representatives and importers
also positively determined that customs brokers were
also very important in the prevention of technical
smuggling having the overall mean of 4.37 and 4.36
respectively. Lastly, the results expressed that BOC
employees and importers believed that customs
brokers are very important in securing the revenue
collection of the government having the overall mean
of 4.44 and 4.46 respectively. However, the results
show that customs brokers are extremely important

EBM-II-015

3.3 Significant difference on the views of

the respondents with regards to the
importance of the customs brokers roles in
mediating transactions.

4.25
Very
Important

4.35

in declaration of customs duties and taxes levied on

imported articles under trade facilitation which are
evaluated
by
both
importers
and
BOC
representatives.

Table 15. T-test of the Perceptions on the Importance

of the Role of Customs Brokers in Mediating
Transactions by the Selected Importers and BOC
representatives in Terms of Securing Government
Revenue Collection
Respon
dents

Mean

s.d

d.
f.

BOC

4.3500

Importer
s

4.2567

.0458
.0305

1
6
4

9
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Co
mp
ute
d t2.93
5

Co
mp
ute
dp
0.04
3

Interpretat
ion

< 0.05
Significant

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

The research has conveyed that the

computed t is -0.669 with d.f. =18 and computed p =
0.329 which is higher than = 0.05, therefore the
null hypothesis is hereby accepted which means that
both BOC and importers have the same perceptions
on the importance of the customs brokers in
mediating transactions in terms of trade facilitation.
In terms of suppression of technical smuggling, the
null hypothesis was also accepted since the computed
t is o,182 with d.f. =4 and computed p = 0.865 which
is higher than = 0.05. Nevertheless, in terms of
securing the revenue collection of the Bureau of
Customs, the null hypothesis was rejected because
the computed t is 2.935 with d.f. =164 and computed
p = 0.043 which is higher than = 0.05 which means
that the two groups of respondents vary on their
perceptions.

4. CONCLUSIONS
The study was aimed at investigating the
vitality of the role of the customs brokers. In the
light of the findings, the following conclusions are
drawn:

4.1 The profile of the respondents.

Most of the respondents are Customs
Examiners who came from Formal Entry Division
having 7 years and beyond experience in the industry
and are regular employees of the government. On
the other hand, on the part of the importers, majority
of the respondents are staffs of the Logistics firm
having 1-3 years of experience and are regular
employees of the private entities.

4.2 Level of importance of the Customs

Brokers role in mediating transactions.
The study reveals that the respondent BOC
employees and selected importers have the same or
similar appreciation on the importance of the
customs brokers. Both believe that customs brokers
are very important in trade facilitation, in prevention
of technical smuggling and securing the revenue
collection of the government. Customs brokers are
very crucial and essential in the field they serve
indeed. The services they provide have positive
effects on the smooth transactions between the
importers and BOC personnel.

3.3 Significant difference on the views of

the respondents with regards to the
importance of the customs brokers roles in
mediating transactions.
EBM-II-015

The results also show that there is no

significant difference on the views of the two groups
of respondents with regard to how important is the
role of the customs brokers in mediating transactions
in terms of trade facilitation and prevention of the
occurrence of technical smuggling. However, there is
a significant difference on the views of the two
groups of respondents with regards to how important
is the role of the customs brokers in mediating
transactions in terms of securing the revenue
collection of the government.
The BOC
representatives see customs brokers as securing
factor in the revenue of the government.
Notwithstanding, the importers, more likely believe
that customs brokers are not effective in achieving
the target of the government. Customs brokers
tolerates bad acts, commits under-the-table
transactions and sometimes, the smugglers
themselves. Further, they also have connivance to
the bad actors in the Bureau of Customs so that they
can continue their interest.
The similarities and differences on the
perceptions of the group of respondents indicates
that despite their importance, some thinks that their
role needs to be upgraded to be more effective on the
services they provide.

5. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The accomplishment of this study had not
been possible without the presence of the individuals
to whom the researchers sought for motivation and
inspiration. Writing this thesis is a formidable task,
but the following turned it the other way around and
made it a more overwhelming experience.
First, the researchers would like to thank
the Almighty God for the good health, patience,
wisdom, perseverance, resiliency and extraordinary
strength that kept them hopeful in bearing the
challenge of completing this thesis.
To their adviser, Mr. Victor Cajala. Thank
you very much Sir for the stimulation and for the
endless support you have extended especially in
times that the researchers are heading out of their
confidence.
Likewise, thanks to all the officers of Bureau
of Customs- NAIA, BOC- Port of Manila, BOCManila International Container Port, Creative Skin
and Spa, Formway Trading and Services, Bhagis
International
Trading,
Rexim
Philippines,
GlaxoSmith
Kline
Philippines,DHL
Express,
Carestream Health Philippines, Arkay Energy and
Industrial Corporation, EDMI Philippines, and
Essilor Philippines for allowing the researchers to
conduct their survey in their respective premises.

10
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

To Dr. Coligado whom the researchers would

like to thank for the statistical treatment of the data
gathered for this study.
To the researchers classmates and friends
for the special bonding filled with laughter and jokes.
Those moments shared with you became the
researchers stress relievers.
Lastly, to our family. A million thanks for
the outpouring support whether morally or
financially.
Thank you for believing in our
capabilities and for believing that we can do
everything; for bringing back our self-esteem in times
that we are about to give up; for the sacrifices and
understanding and for walking with us in our
journey.

Chaturvedi, S. (2006). Trade facilitation and customs

valuation in India:
gaps. RIS paper India.

Identifying

the

Customs brokers urged to reinvent role with

modernization.
(2014,
February
17).
Manila Bulletin. Retrieved July 14, 2014,
from http://www.mb.ph/

Customs modernization to open new opportunities

for brokers. (2014, March 21).
Retrieved
July 16, 2014, from http://news.pia.gov.ph/

Customs suspends 115 importers, brokers. (2014,

March 7). The Philippine Star.

6. REFERENCES
533 new customs brokers named. (2013, October 26).
Manila Bulletin. Retrieved July 14, 2014,
from http://www.mb.com.ph/

A brief on customs brokerage. (n.d.) Retrieved July

15,
2014,
http://managementstudyguide.com/

from

About customs brokers. (n.d.) Retrieved July 16,

2014,
http://www.bestcustomsbroker.com/
Almonte, L. (2013, May 23).

from

PH customs broking profession polishes its image .

(2013, May 23). PortCalls.
Anonymous (2014, July 14). Garlic importer, broker
face smuggling rap.
Customs
Balita: The Wise Mens Choice.

De

(n.d.) Customs
(Conference
ed.). Philippines: Llave Review and Training
Center, Inc.

Wulf,

L.,

&

Sokol,

modernization

J.B.

handbook

DoF defers customs brokers law. (2006, December

24). Manila Bulletin.
Domondon, A. T., & Domondon, R.T. (2005). Primer

on the implementing rules

and
regulations of R.A. 9280: the customs
brokers act of 2004. Manila: Philippine
Society
for
Students.

Customs

Administration

Fortlage, N. (2011, January 21). The role of the

customs broker in import transactions.

Resources Trade Compliance & Strategy.

Retrieved
July
16,
2014,
http://tradecompliance.ghy.com/

Automate or perish: Its back. (n.d.)

Biazon, R. B. (2012, November 21). Speech during

the 2012 national assembly

of
chamber of customs brokers, inc. Retrieved
July
10,
2014,
http://www.ruffybiazon.ph/

Dascil, R. T. (2006). Customs brokers act of 2004:

explained. Manila: Rex.

from

from

Giermanski, J., & Giermanski, C. (2014, February

27). Customs brokers at U.S.Mexican

border.

Changes along the Border. Retrieved July 18, 2014,

from http://www.sdcexec.com/

Brew, J. B., Jarreau, J.S., & Sherman M. D. (2009).

US customs: a practitioners
guide to
principles. Retrieved July 17, 2014, from
http://books.google.com.ph/

p.2.

Brokers told: prepare for customs reforms. (2013,

December 11). Manila Bulletin. Retrieved
July 16, 2014, from http://www.mb.com.ph/

EBM-II-015

Government data portal lists top importers, duty

payers. (2014, January 20).
PortCalls,
Government issue ruling on accreditation of customs
brokers. (2008, February 20).
Business
Mirror.

11
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015

Presented at the DLSU Research Congress 2015

De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
March 2-4, 2015

P. (2009). Clearing customs: the

importation,
entry
and
liquidation
process. Retrieved July 17, 2014, from

Pushing buttons. (n.d.) Retreived July 15, 2014,

http://books.google.com.ph/

Tabirara,

Hegland,

Johnson, T. E., & Bade, D. L. (2010). Export, import

procedures and documentation.
United
States: American Management Association.

from
J.J.

http://www.tradeinnovations.com/
(2013).

Philippines:

Customs broker in the

boon
or
bane?

Unpublished masters thesis, Asian Institute

of Maritime Studies, Pasay
City,
Philippines.

Lee, B. (2013, September 3). The role of customs

brokers in global trade. Retrieved July 14,
2014, from http://morethanshipping.com/

Tariff and customs code of the Philippines. (2011).

Lee, G.F. (2009, June 29). The role of customs

The business dictionary. Retrieved July 10, 2014,

brokers

in

import

transactions.

Nossaman White Paper. Retrieved July

16, 2014, from http://www.nossaman.com/
Llanto, G.M., et. al,. (2013). Customs brokerage

services and trade facilitation: a review of

regulatory coherence. Discussion Paper,
Philippine Institute of
Studies, Philippines.

Developmental

Philippines:
Commission.
from

Philippines

Tariff

http://www.businessdictionary.com

The Merriam-Webster dictionary. Retrieved July 10,

2014,from http://www.merriam-webster.com/

Understanding the role of a customs broker. (n.d.)

Retrieved
July
15,
2014,
http://resources.alibaba.com/

from

Llanto, G.M., et. al., (2013). How should we move

forward in customs brokerage

and trade
facilitation?. Policy Notes, 5266(1),4-5.

Uzzaman, M.A., & Yusuf M.A. (n.d.) The role of

customs and other agencies in trade
facilitation in Bangladesh: hindrances and
ways forward. World Customs Journal, 5(1),
31-32.

Nague, F.A. (2005). Handbook on the tariff and

Ventura, E. U. (2008). Ex-post effect of transaction

customs code of the Philippines, as

amended, and the customs brokers act of
2004 (R.A. 9280) and its implementing
rules and regulations (1st ed). Quezon City:
Nague.

Organization, functions and jurisdiction of the

bureau
of
customs.
(2005).

valuation: impact on revenue

collection,
import volume and import values of the
bureau of customs. Unpublished thesis,
University of Asia and Pacific, Philippines.

Wada, A. (2011, October 4). The role of customs

brokers. Retrieved July 16, 2014, from
http://importtradelaw.com/

Philippines: Llave Review and Training

Center, Inc.
Osmena III, S. (2013, July 1). Explanatory note.
Senate Bill 168, Senate.
Pimentel, A.Q. (2003, October 27). Sponsorship

speech. Customs Brokers Act of

Explained.

2004:

Public Relations and Information Bureau-Congress

of
the
Philippines.
(2013).
Committee on ways and means to prioritize
fiscal
incentives
and
customs
modernization bills. Retrieved July 14, 2014,
from http://congress.gov.ph/press/

EBM-II-015

12
Proceedings of the DLSU Research Congress Vol. 3 2015