To track and monitor the movement and position of containers utilizing GPS-enabled customs

seals, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has implemented electronic monitoring systems like the Electronic
Monitoring of Containerized Cargo (E-TRACC) System. The system produces real-time information to
track the whereabouts of containers. It sends a port warning in case of any deviation from the expected
routes, unlawful trips, or tampering with seals. Although I could not locate any data on how E-TRACC
affected customs brokers in Cebu City, it is logical to anticipate that the system would improve their
productivity. Without the requirement for customs officials to physically accompany the transfer of
commodities from the port to their destination, the method would aid customs brokers in more quickly
locating sealed containers. It would safeguard the government's interests while reducing delays and
facilitating trade. The Customs Administrative Order No. 15-2019 was implemented by CMO 04-2020,
which was released in February that addresses the movement of foreign goods into and out of customs
territory, warehousing, and those admitted to free zones, as well as the transfer of goods from CFWs
(customs facilities and warehouses). Before being authorized to leave the origin or point of discharge for
the journey to the destination or endpoint, all container vans covered by CMO 04-2020 must be marked
with an electronic customs seal (ECS). A cargo can be physically secured with the ECS, a GPS-enabled
sealing device or lock, which can also give current locational data. Without permission from the district
collector at the port of delivery, working with the district collector at the port where the container was
approved for transfer/transit, no customs officer can open an import shipment in transfer or transit
without the necessary ECS. A report on the investigation's results will be sent to the district collector and
customs commissioner by BOC's Enforcement and Security Service immediately. Stakeholders should rest
easy knowing that BOC has enough employees working in shifts to administer the E-TRACC System
around the clock. The BOC claims that the E-TRACC system has been essential in preventing incorrect
container delivery, "thus preventing issues on missing containers or authorized diversion of the carriers
and misdelivery." "The system has recorded numerous violations such as 699 corridor alerts (deviation
from registered routes), 32 security alerts, 18 unauthorized departures, and 84 unauthorized end trips.
Corresponding penalties were charged against the violators," said the BOC. The E-TRACC, according to
BOC, helps facilitate commerce and simplify commercial transactions. "Through E-TRACC, manual
procedure and under guarding of containers in transit were streamlined, thereby saving personnel
complement and reducing bureaucratic process," according to the agency. E-TRACC is fully operational at
Manila ports, the Manila International Container Port, Batangas, Subic, Cebu, Davao, and Cagayan De
Oro (Quismorio, 2021).