Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is committed to ensuring the prompt release of rice shipments at the Manila International Container Port (MICP), addressing concerns over potential delays in the supply chain. In a statement, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio assured the public that the agency is working diligently to prevent disruptions and curb illegal hoarding of rice. This comes after an inspection of rice shipments on Sept. 25, 2024, led by House Speaker Martin Romualdez, together with ACT-CIS Party-list Representatives Erwin Tulfo and Edvic Yap, following reports of port congestion. Rubio said there is no port congestion at MICP and that all shipments have been cleared, noting that the delays stem from importers taking advantage of the 30-day window to claim their shipments after paying customs duties and taxes. Romualdez urged rice importers to speed up the release of their shipments, warning them against hoarding, which could lead to legal repercussions. He lauded the BOC for its vigilance in monitoring rice imports, emphasizing the importance of ensuring a stable rice supply to prevent price hikes. The BOC's efforts are aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to maintain a steady supply of consumer goods and protect the nation's food security. To date, 630 rice containers are at MICP, with 492 having cleared customs duties and 138 still being processed. Source: Philippines News agency