The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) has welcomed the Bureau of Customs (BOC) administrative order granting temporary admission of International Cable-Laying and Repair Vessels (ICLRVs). The reform, contained in Customs Administrative Order 2-2026, aims to reduce procedural uncertainty and improve efficiency in customs processes for highly specialized vessels like cable-laying ships.
Signed by Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno on May 6 and by Finance Secretary Frederick Go on May 18, Customs Administrative Order 2-2026 streamlines customs processes for ICLRVs. This means submarine cables that are critical to the Philippines' digital infrastructure, economic competitiveness, and connectivity security can be installed, maintained, and repaired more efficiently.
The American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (AmCham) said the measure is aligned with international best practices, particularly for timely installation, maintenance, and repair of submarine cables. AmCham also expressed support for the BOC effort, saying it will reinforce the country's position as a reliable, competitive, and investment-friendly digital connectivity hub, attracting more foreign investments and contributing to the country's economic growth.
The group, however, called for a clearer and more standardized approach for security requirements. AmCham said 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, hindering the timely completion of critical works.
AmCham proposed extending the allowable short-term stay of ICLRVs from 15 days to 30 days, with a possible 30-day extension. The group said this flexibility will allow for uninterrupted and timely completion of critical works, considering that cable repair and installation operations are often highly time-sensitive, weather-dependent, and operationally complex, requiring a more flexible approach to ensure success.
“This represents 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,” AmCham said in a statement.
AmCham also emphasized the need for a more clearly defined, capped, or standardized methodology for security requirements. The group stated, “While we recognize the importance of safeguarding government revenue, 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, which can negatively impact the country's economic competitiveness.”
In addition to the security requirement, AmCham also proposed extending the allowable short-term stay of ICLRVs from the current 15 days to 30 days, with a possible 30-day extension. This longer timeframe will give the necessary flexibility for uninterrupted and timely completion of critical works.
AmCham stated, “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. This is particularly crucial for maintaining the country's digital connectivity and promoting economic growth.”
“We remain committed to supporting the government in advancing and implementing policies that enhance the Philippines' position as a reliable, competitive, and investment-friendly digital connectivity hub,” AmCham said.