Title
Guidelines on Vehicle Importation in Freeport Zones
Law
Boc Memorandum
Decision Date
Apr 3, 1995
The BOC Memorandum establishes regulations for the importation and registration of motor vehicles by investors in freeport and special economic zones, requiring Import Permits, clearance certificates, and coordination with the Land Transportation Office to ensure compliance and monitoring.

Import Permits and Utilization

  • All motor vehicle imports by investors/registered enterprises in the freeport/SEZ must be covered by Import Permits issued by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA).
  • Until further regulations are issued, such vehicles are restricted for use only within the secured area of the freeport/SEZ.

Role of District Collectors

  • District Collectors stationed at the Zones are responsible for processing the import entry declarations of motor vehicles.
  • Their duties include examination, assessment, and issuance of clearance certificates for imported vehicles.

Clearance Certificates and Vehicle Registration

  • Clearance certificates replace the usual certificates of payments needed for vehicle registration with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
  • This facilitates the registration process under the special conditions of importation within the freeport/SEZ.

LTO Registration and Taxation Notation

  • The LTO issues registration receipts bearing a specific notation: "Tax Exempt under RA 7227: Subject to Payment of Customs Duties and Taxes upon Transfer."
  • This expresses the tax-exempt status during initial registration but highlights the obligation for customs duties and taxes if the vehicle is transferred.

Coordination for Vehicle Identification

  • Zone authorities are tasked with coordinating with the LTO to issue distinctive license plates.
  • Additionally, vehicles must have appropriate body markings indicating their importation under RA 7227, aiding monitoring and compliance.

Reporting and Implementation

  • District Collectors are required to coordinate with freeport/SEZ authorities and the LTO to ensure the effective application of the regulations.
  • They must also submit monthly reports on the motor vehicles processed in their jurisdiction.

Immediate Effectivity

  • The guidelines are enacted with immediate effect from the date of issuance (April 3, 1995).

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