Manila, July 14 -- The Philippines, through the Bureau of Customs (BOC), and the Israel Customs Directorate signed a Joint Action Plan (JAP) marking the official start of a cooperation toward establishing an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) between the two countries.

Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and Israel Customs Directorate Director General Kfir Hen signed the JAP in Pasig City on July 13, which serves as the roadmap for both Customs administrations in negotiating and implementing the AEO MRA, outlining the activities, timelines, and responsibilities that will guide both sides throughout the process.

The deal reinforces the country's commitment to internationally recognized customs standards an...