MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Monday said it is fast-tracking the release of imported medical equipment and supplies from the country’s ports, except those without the necessary permits. “The Commissioner [Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero] ordered a specific team that monitor all emergency medical supplies and equipment. We’re expediting their release,” BOC spokesperson and Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip C. Maronilla said. ADVERTISEMENTAs such, medical supplies such as face/surgical masks and personal protective equipment (PPE) were being released and not stored at warehouses, Maronilla said. But if there are a few medical equipment still pending release, these are without the necessary permits from regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 16, 2020 04:01 UTC