What This Document Is
This document is a Freedom of Information (FOI) Manual issued by the Bureau of Customs in the Philippines. It details the procedures for requesting and obtaining access to non-confidential information held by the Bureau, in accordance with Philippine law and Executive Orders promoting transparency and public disclosure. This is an amended version, updating a previous manual from 2019.
Why This Document Matters
This manual is essential for any individual or organization seeking information from the Bureau of Customs. It clarifies the rights of the public to access government information, outlines the process for submitting requests (both online and written), and defines key terms related to information access and confidentiality. It’s intended for use by Bureau of Customs personnel processing requests, as well as members of the public, journalists, researchers, and businesses interacting with the Bureau.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This document focuses *solely* on the process of requesting information. It does not provide the information itself, nor does it guarantee that all requests will be fulfilled. Certain types of information are exempt from disclosure, as defined within the manual.
What This Document Provides
The full manual includes:
* A detailed scope of the FOI process within the Bureau of Customs.
* Specific objectives for implementing the FOI guidelines.
* Definitions of key terms like “Confidential Business Information” and “Executive Privilege.”
* Procedures for submitting and processing FOI requests.
* Guidelines for administrative appeals if a request is denied.
* Information on the ICT-enabled monitoring system for online requests.
This preview does *not* include the full text of the FOI request forms, the complete list of exemptions to disclosure, or the detailed procedures for appealing a decision.
