Question & AnswerQ&A (BOC CUSTOMS MEMORANDUM ORDER NO. 1-2013)
The objectives are to efficiently and effectively implement the Super Green Lane (SGL) Plus facility for qualified importers, simplify and accelerate the customs clearance and administrative process, organize units and define responsibilities among BOC offices involved, and provide clear and transparent operating procedures for the SGL Plus facility.
The order covers the Port of Manila, Manila International Container Port, NAIA Customs house, and any other ports as may be necessary.
The principles include promoting the highest possible service to achieve trade facilitation and compliance with Customs laws, rules, and regulations, and recognizing the importance of SGL Plus membership in policing its ranks and fostering cooperation.
Exclusive benefits include a three-year suspension on the conduct of audits, five-year validity of the Importer's Accreditation, allowance to import articles not included in the List of Importables under certain conditions, a 24-hour Client Coordinator Service, and other benefits processed by the SGL Plus Task Group.
The Task Group is composed of: Deputy Commissioner, IG (Chairman), Chief RMO, Assistant Chief RMO, Director IAS, Chief PPRD, Chief of Staff AOCG, Executive Assistant OCOM, and Assistant OIC Production Section CIIS.
The importer must be an SGL member transacting with BOC for at least one year prior, have a clear and specific nature of business, have been consulted by the SGL Plus Association, have a good reputation with no misuse of customs facilities for one year or derogatory information, and be willing to undergo compliance audit.
Grounds include failure to submit required documents, fraud or misrepresentation in the application or importation, submission of fake documents, refusal to pay duties and taxes after verification, violation of accreditation terms, and refusal to comply with lawful orders or directives.
Shipments must be on the list of importables submitted at least 10 days before arrival, be freely importable or covered by continuing Import Authority if regulated, declared under consumption entries subject to duties and taxes, and not contain prohibited articles.
Fees are based on FOB value of imports: Php 500 for below US$5,000, Php 1,000 for US$5,001 to US$100,000, Php 1,500 for US$100,001 to US$200,000, Php 2,000 for US$200,001 to US$500,000, and Php 2,500 for above US$500,000.
The SGL Plus Task Group selects top SGL users based on duty paid and consults the SGL Plus Association. Invitations with forms and requirements are sent by the Secretariat. Applications are interviewed within 5 days, and recommendations are deliberated and submitted to the Task Group, which then decides to seek more information, deny, or recommend approval by the Commissioner.