Manila: The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) on Friday welcomed the issuance of a Bureau of Customs (BOC) administrative order covering the temporary admission of International Cable-Laying and Repair Vessels (ICLRVs).
According to Philippines News Agency, Customs Administrative Order 2-2026 was signed by Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno on May 6 and by Finance Secretary Frederick Go on May 18. AmCham stated that this development is an important step toward reducing procedural uncertainty and improving the efficiency of customs processes for highly specialized vessels that support global connectivity and digital resilience.
The group highlighted that the measure aligns customs processes with the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and international best practices, particularly for the timely installation, maintenance, and repair of submarine cables that are critical to the Philippines' digital infrastructure, economic competitiveness, and connectivity security. AmCham emphasized that a more efficient and predictable regulatory environment for these operations would also strengthen the Philippines' competitiveness and attractiveness as an investment destination.
AmCham, however, called for a clearer and more standardized approach for security requirements, noting that the current requirement of proof of posting of a security equivalent to 100 percent of duties, taxes, and other charges may create valuation uncertainty, inconsistent application, and avoidable operational delays. The group proposed a more clearly defined, capped, or standardized methodology to promote predictability and efficient implementation.
Additionally, AmCham suggested extending the allowable short-term stay of ICLRVs from the current 15 days, extendable by another 15 days, to 30 days with a possible 30-day extension. They noted that cable repair and installation operations are often highly time-sensitive, weather-dependent, and operationally complex, requiring flexibility to ensure uninterrupted and timely completion of critical works.
AmCham concluded by stating that these refinements would further strengthen clarity, consistency, and operational efficiency while preserving effective customs administration and regulatory oversight. They affirmed their readiness to support the government in advancing and implementing policies that enhance the Philippines' position as a reliable, competitive, and investment-friendly digital connectivity hub.
