2025 News from PUCP
Lessons from decades of public-private dialogue
By Ricardo Saludo
MILLIONS of Filipinos have not heard of the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines (PUCP), despite celebrating its 30th anniversary on Jan. 7. But for families fretting over rising prices, travelers wary of airport problems and, in recent months, tens of thousands of protesters raging over multibillion-peso government sleaze — these and other Pinoys have reason to thank PUCP that things aren’t worse.
Established with support from then-Bureau of Customs (BOC) commissioner Guilliermo Parayno, PUCP set up the agency on the computerized system for filing cargo documents for clearing imports and exports through sea and air terminals — speeding up the flow of goods, reducing business and consumer costs, and avoiding delays in everything from rice shipments to “balikbayan” boxes sent by overseas Filipino workers and other compatriots across the globe.
How bad things could get if trade and travel were not enhanced by PUCP dialogue with port authorities was seen in the cargo congestion crisis in 2014. Months-long delays in releasing and transporting imports constrained rice supplies and pushed prices higher. Manufacturers, too, suffered, with operations being suspended for lack of raw materials.
That led the PUCP to convene the Manila Port Summit with Cabinet members joining business leaders to urgently address the cargo crunch, triggered by the Manila city government’s restrictions and road charges on trucks picking up containers from the city’s terminals.
Give citizens a voice PUCP’s efforts to enhance port operations in the face of massive corruption, particularly in the BOC, holds lessons for the nation’s never-ending struggle against corruption — now at its worst ever with the flood control fund scam allegedly running over P1 trillion.
Three effective measures emerge from three decades of government-business engagement through PUCP: private sector empowerment, process automation and respectful, open and productive dialogue.
Private-sector empowerment is most important. Not the collusion between corrupt businesses, bureaucrats and budget “proponents” seen in the flood control scandal. Rather, BOC chiefs listened to and acted on industry complaints against extortionist officials squeezing legitimate enterprises over cargo shipments.
This support for bona fide businesses began years before PUCP emerged as the leading voice for industries using port facilities. One of its founders, confederation chairman emerita Noemi Saludo, elected in 2004 as the first woman president of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), recounts an action by then-customs commissioner and retired general Salvador Mison.
Another respected commissioner was Guillermo Parayno, who pioneered BOC computerization in the 1990s Ramos administration. He urged industries with regular port operations to help automate the clearing of shipments and payment of tariffs and duties. Led by Noemi Saludo — this writer’s mother — PCCI and, upon its establishment, PUCP, set up with the BOC the cargo processing and duties payment system, which reduced human intervention and the sleaze that often thrives on it.
The cargo process automation won kudos from the International Monetary Fund, which then hired Parayno as consultant advising other countries on customs reform.
Consultation, not conflict
Besides private sector empowerment and process automation, PUCP also harnessed frank but respectful and productive dialogue with the government. The 2014 Manila Port Summit, cited by the current PUCP president, retired colonel Rodolfo de Ocampo, as a major highlight of his dozen years of service to the group, demonstrates this approach.
While there was much business frustration over port congestion caused by misgovernance, PUCP eschewed open criticism to work out solutions with both the national government and the Manila city authorities under the then-mayor Joseph Estrada.
This approach is needed even more today with the BOC being criticized for business-strangling graft by the US State Department’s review of business policies in the region.
But this dialogue requires a policy of empowering and listening to the people, as key customs chiefs like Mison and Parayno did. In fact, this policy of bringing the citizenry into top-level governance.
This was done in several agencies under the US Millennium Challenge Corp. reforms straddling the Arroyo and Aquino administrations. Major Cabinet departments, as well as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Philippine National Police and the Civil Service Commission, regularly formed multisectoral advisory councils on policies and operations. Among other positive results, the AFP’s public satisfaction and trust ratings have increased since then.
Private sector empowerment, automation and productive dialogue. May our nation learn these lessons as we struggle with our grave governance issues.
PUCP Successfully Concludes Community Bingo at Solaire
The Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP), in partnership with PAGCOR, successfully held its much-anticipated Community Bingo on November 8, 2025 at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort and Casino, Pasay City. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of 232 players, all gathered for an afternoon of fun, fellowship, and generous prizes.
With a total guaranteed prize payout of ₱215,000.00, the bingo games featured ten exciting rounds, culminating in a thrilling final game with a ₱100,000.00 jackpot. The atmosphere was festive and welcoming, reflecting PUCP’s commitment to community engagement and member appreciation.
PUCP extends its heartfelt thanks to all participants, volunteers, and partners who made the event a resounding success. The organization looks forward to hosting more inclusive and enjoyable gatherings that strengthen camaraderie across the port user community.
PUCP Conducts Courtesy Call with ATI Executives
On April 28, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) conducted a courtesy call with key executives of Asian Terminals Inc. (ATI) at Chef Jessie, Rockwell Makati. The meeting was attended by ATI executives Mr. William Khoury, Mr. Sean Perez, and Mr. Tristan Carpio, and served as a platform for open dialogue and strengthened collaboration between PUCP and ATI.
Discussions focused on shared industry concerns, operational synergies, and future initiatives aimed at enhancing port efficiency and stakeholder engagement. The PUCP delegation expressed its appreciation for ATI’s continued support and openness to partnership, reaffirming the Confederation’s commitment to constructive engagement with port authorities and terminal operators.
This engagement marks another step in PUCP’s ongoing efforts to foster meaningful partnerships that benefit the broader logistics and trade community.
The event was a testament to PUCP’s commitment to faith-driven advocacy and its deep-rooted support for charitable initiatives that uplift communities and honor the values of compassion, leadership, and unity.
This engagement marks another step in PUCP’s ongoing efforts to foster meaningful partnerships that benefit the broader logistics and trade community.
PUCP Joins Bahay ng Diyos Foundation’s 19th Anniversary and Ms. Noemi Saludo’s 90th Birthday Celebration
On April 26, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) proudly joined the Bahay ng Diyos Foundation in celebrating its 19th Anniversary, held in Lipa, Batangas. The occasion was made even more meaningful with the 90th birthday celebration of PUCP Chairman Emeritus, Ms. Noemi L. Saludo—a respected leader and pillar of the organization.
PUCP was represented by Ms. Marieta D. Veneracion, Mr. Mario C. Sy, Ms. Elaine T. Tan, and Atty. Reynaldo T. Dizon, who extended their warmest greetings and heartfelt appreciation for Ms. Saludo’s enduring legacy and the Foundation’s continued mission of evangelization and service.
Committee chairpersons were appointed to lead Health & Wellness, Marketing & PR, and Training & Seminars initiatives, reinforcing PUCP’s commitment to member engagement and capacity-building. The meeting concluded with a call to action for a Special Board Meeting to finalize implementation strategies and timelines.
PUCP continues to uphold its mission of proactive governance, industry collaboration, and service excellence.
PUCP Convenes 4th Regular Board Meeting for 2025
The Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) held its 4th Regular Board Meeting on April 25, 2025, at the PUCP Office in Port Area, Manila. Presided over by President Col. Rodolfo T. De Ocampo (Ret.), the meeting brought together key board members and representatives to deliberate on strategic initiatives, financial planning, and organizational development.
Key highlights included the approval of budget allocations for the Christmas Party and Board cash gifts, endorsement of annual financial assistance to the Bahay ng Diyos Foundation, and the launch of new initiatives such as the PUCP website, social media presence, and a proposed Container Yard–Cargo Freight Station (CY-CFS) business venture. The Board also discussed preparations for the lease expiration of the PUCP office and emphasized the importance of sustainable income sources.
PUCP Participates in MICP 6th CICAC Meeting
On April 10, 2025, representatives of the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) actively participated in the 6th Customs Industry Consultative Advisory Council (CICAC) Meeting for the Manila International Container Port (MICP), held at the FFCCCII Headquarters in Binondo, Manila.
PUCP was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Mr. Arman F. Victoria, Ms. Elaine T. Tan, and Mr. Anthony V. Eugenio. The meeting served as a vital platform for dialogue between the Bureau of Customs and industry stakeholders, focusing on trade facilitation, operational concerns, and collaborative solutions to enhance port efficiency.
PUCP remains committed to constructive engagement and policy advocacy in support of its members and the broader logistics and trade community.
PUCP Holds 3rd Regular Board Meeting for 2025
The Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) successfully convened its 3rd Regular Board Meeting on March 28, 2025, at the PUCP Office in Port Area, Manila. Presided over by President Col. Rodolfo T. De Ocampo (Ret.), the meeting gathered key board members and representatives to deliberate on vital organizational matters, including financial updates, stakeholder engagements, and policy advocacy.
Highlights included the approval of PUCP’s position paper on PPA’s draft Administrative Order, updates on courtesy calls to ICTSI, and discussions on office space requests from the Bureau of Customs. The board also reaffirmed PUCP’s commitment to the Bahay ng Diyos Foundation and addressed concerns related to customs procedures and container deposit refunds.
The meeting concluded with a celebration of March birthday celebrants and a reaffirmation of PUCP’s dedication to industry collaboration and service.
PUCP Pays Courtesy Call to ICTSI Executives
On March 18, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) paid a courtesy call to Mr. Phillip Marsham, Executive Director for MICT and Manila Multipurpose Terminal, and Mr. Mikkel Puyat, Commercial Director, at the ICTSI Lounge, Administration Building.
The meeting served as a platform to strengthen collaboration between PUCP and International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (ICTSI), and to discuss shared goals in improving port operations, stakeholder engagement, and trade facilitation.
PUCP Attends Central CICAC Meeting at FFCCCII
On March 14, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) participated in the Central CICAC Meeting held at the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) Headquarters in Binondo, Manila.
PUCP was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Ms. Marieta Veneracion, Ms. Elaine Tan, Ms. Anabel Mozo, Mr. Anthony Eugenio, and Mr. Andy Maribao. The meeting focused on strengthening public-private collaboration and addressing key issues in customs and port operations.
PUCP Participates in MICP CICAC Meeting
On February 26, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) attended the MICP CICAC Meeting held at Barbara’s Heritage Restaurant, Intramuros, Manila.
PUCP was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Ms. Elaine Tan, Mr. Arman Victoria, and Mr. Anthony Eugenio. The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss customs operations, port concerns, and collaborative efforts to enhance trade facilitation at the Manila International Container Port.
PUCP Attends CLA Dinner Event
On February 21, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) participated in the Container Ledger Account (CLA) Dinner Event held at Lanson Place, Mall of Asia Complex.
The event focused on strengthening synergy and collaboration among logistics and customs stakeholders. PUCP was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Ms. Wendy Sonza, and Ms. Charie Morabe, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to active industry engagement and partnership-building.
PUCP Recognized at Port of Manila Stakeholders’ Awarding Ceremony
On February 11, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) was honored as one of the awardees during the Port of Manila Stakeholders’ Awarding Ceremony held at Admiral Hotel, as part of the Bureau of Customs’ 123rd Founding Anniversary celebrations.
PUCP was recognized for its continued support and active engagement in customs and trade facilitation initiatives. The organization was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Mr. Anthony V. Eugenio, and Mr. Andy Maribao.
PUCP Attends BOC’s 123rd Founding Anniversary Celebration
On February 7, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) joined the Bureau of Customs in celebrating its 123rd Founding Anniversary at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
The event was graced by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who commended the BOC’s modernization efforts and commitment to integrity and public service. PUCP was represented by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, Mr. Arman Victoria, Mr. Anthony Eugenio, and Ms. Elaine Tan, reaffirming the organization’s support for customs reform and trade facilitation.
PUCP Convenes 1st Regular Board Meeting for 2025
PUCP held its 1st Regular Board Meeting on January 31, 2025, at the PUCP Office. Key matters included the appointment of Ms. Julita Q. Lopez as Chairman, approval of financial reports, updates on BIR compliance, and preparations for upcoming events and planning activities.
The Board also acknowledged PUCP’s WCO Certificate of Merit and approved support for the AISL Fellowship Golf Tournament.
PUCP Receives WCO Certificate of Merit on International Customs Day
On January 27, 2025, the Port Users Confederation of the Philippines, Inc. (PUCP) was honored with a Certificate of Merit from the World Customs Organization (WCO) during the International Customs Day commemoration held at the OCOM Conference Room, Bureau of Customs, Manila.
The award was received by Ms. Julita Q. Lopez, PUCP Vice President for Customs Affairs, in recognition of PUCP’s outstanding contribution to customs and trade facilitation. The WCO Certificate of Merit highlights PUCP’s active role in promoting collaboration, transparency, and efficiency in customs operations.
PUCP remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen public-private partnerships and enhance the country’s trade environment.