MANILA, Philippines — Jill L. Tolentino Customs Brokerage (JLTCB), together with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bataan and CITI Philippines, successfully conducted a free executive masterclass aimed at strengthening Post Clearance Audit (PCA) readiness and import compliance among Bataan importers, locators and business stakeholders.

The virtual session, titled “Free Executive Masterclass: Strengthening Post Clearance Audit Readiness,” was held on Sept. 2, 2026, via Zoom. It provided participants with practical insights into Post Clearance Audit in the Philippines, the Prior Disclosure Program (PDP), customs compliance and trade facilitation.

The masterclass featured three key discussions led by licensed customs brokers with expertise in customs administration and trade compliance.

Francine Dela Cruz, LCB, led the discussion on Post Clearance Audit, providing an overview of the Bureau of Customs PCA program, its process and compliance requirements. She also discussed common importer risks, potential audit findings, customs valuation and tariff classification concerns, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining proper business records and supporting documentation to strengthen audit readiness.

The session also tackled the Prior Disclosure Program, with Maria Franchesca Lumelay, LCB discussing how the program can support voluntary compliance and help qualified importers proactively address customs discrepancies. Participants gained insights into PDP application procedures, requirements and key considerations when seeking to disclose potential compliance issues.

Completing the discussions was Apple Nathalie B. Marfa, LCB, who discussed JLTCB’s expertise in customs compliance and trade facilitation. Her presentation highlighted the role of licensed customs brokers in supporting import compliance and efficient trade operations, as well as strategies businesses can consider to reduce shipment delays, regulatory risks and other operational challenges.

The discussions emphasized that customs compliance does not end when imported goods are released. For Philippine importers, maintaining accurate records, properly supporting declarations and regularly reviewing import processes are important elements of a stronger compliance program.

The masterclass also encouraged businesses to take a proactive approach to potential customs risks. Understanding PCA requirements and mechanisms such as the Prior Disclosure Program can help importers identify compliance gaps and determine appropriate steps before these issues develop into more significant concerns.

Another key focus was the importance of integrating customs compliance into broader business operations. Collaboration among customs, finance, procurement, logistics and accounting teams can help ensure that information supporting import transactions remains accurate, consistent and accessible.

For businesses operating across the Philippines, these practices are increasingly relevant as international trade becomes more compliance-driven. Stronger documentation, internal controls and regulatory awareness can help companies manage customs risks while supporting more efficient trade operations.

The initiative also provided participants with an opportunity to better understand how JLTCB’s customs advisory, brokerage and compliance solutions can support businesses beyond the immediate clearance of shipments. By combining technical customs expertise with practical compliance guidance, JLTCB continues to help importers address regulatory and operational challenges throughout the trade process.

The successful masterclass reflects the continuing importance of industry education in strengthening import compliance in the Philippines. It equipped participating importers and locators with practical knowledge they can apply to their customs processes while encouraging businesses to take a more proactive approach to compliance.

As Philippine companies continue to participate in global trade, preparing for regulatory requirements should not begin only when an audit notice is received. Post Clearance Audit readiness starts with accurate records, sound internal controls, informed decision-making and a commitment to continuous customs compliance.