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MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is eyeing the signing of a proposed joint administrative order (JAO) by August that would grant the agency broader powers to lead government efforts in addressing persistent port congestion.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event, Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the government was targeting the order’s signing ahead of the cyclical buildup in port congestion, which typically begins around October as trade activity picks up toward the holiday season.

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According to Nepomuceno, recurring congestion is driven by a combination of infrastructure constraints, limited container yard capacity and lack of discipline among shipping lines and importers.