Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced on Monday that it has collected PHP784.54 billion in revenues from January to October 2024. This marks a significant achievement for the BOC as it continues to enhance its revenue collection strategies. According to Philippines News Agency, the revenue figure for the period reflects a 6 percent increase, amounting to PHP44.45 billion more than the PHP740.095 billion collected during the same period last year. This cumulative collection has also surpassed the Development Budget Coordination Committee's target of PHP779.99 billion, resulting in a surplus of PHP4.550 billion. In the month of October alone, the BOC collected PHP89.5 billion, exceeding its target of PHP86.1 billion by 3.9 percent, or PHP3.4 billion. The BOC noted that PHP3.35 billion was garnered from tax credit certificates, which significantly contributed to boosting the overall revenue. BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio attributed the revenue growth to the bureau's commitment to ensuring accurate duty and tax collections through rigorous verification of imported goods' values and classifications. He highlighted that the growth also reflects contributions from the value-added tax refund program and the strict fuel marking initiative. Rubio emphasized the BOC's commitment to strengthening its collection capabilities and promoting fiscal growth. "Our efforts are directed toward driving sustainable development and advancing our nation's economic resilience," he stated. He also mentioned that enhanced partnerships with other government agencies, streamlining procedures, and supporting secure trade facilitation have played key roles in achieving the revenue goals.