Manila, Aug. 18 -- The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Monday said it will temporarily remove the online duty and tax calculator (ODTC) from its website to allow for system improvements.

Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno issued the directive as he apologized to actress Bella Padilla, who used social media to question the PHP4,600 charged for her PHP11,000 shipment despite the ODTC showing only PHP1,650 in taxes.

"To avoid similar situations in the future, I directed that the calculator be taken down until enhancements are completed. The upgraded system will provide a more comprehensive breakdown, ensuring that all applicable charges are properly reflected," he said in a statement.

Nepomuceno said the computation of duties and taxes is based on ...