COURTESY: Bureau of Customs – Port of Cagayan de Oro
Hey folks, if you're into stories of teamwork triumphing over paperwork, buckle up! Today, I'm diving into the awesome news from the Bureau of Customs – Port of Cagayan de Oro. They just crushed an internal audit like pros, and it's all about keeping their operations top-notch. Led by the sharp District Collector Atty. Manuel O. Zurbito, Jr., this port is sailing straight toward ISO glory. Let's break it down, shall we?
First off, the audit happened on April 21–22, 2026, courtesy of the Bureau of Customs Interim Internal Quality Management System Office (IIQMSO). The on-site team, headed by Lead Auditor Karen Susan G. Rofes and internal auditor Belinda C. Copioso, dug deep into the port's processes. Meanwhile, Atty. Jielene Kelly E. Espera, Amalia B. Apolonio, and Michelle N. Tablazon jumped in remotely, checking out spots like the Customer Care Center, Assessment Division, Administrative Division, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), Management Information System and Technology Group (MISTG), and even Top Management. They evaluated the Quality Management System across these areas, ensuring everything clicked perfectly.
Transitioning smoothly, the auditors wrapped up with some solid feedback. They spotted two Opportunities for Improvement (OFIs) and handed out one Positive Finding to Top Management, praising the port's killer revenue game. From January to March 2026, the Port raked in ₱10,693,937,033.57 – that's way over their target of ₱9,618,283,942.91, with an impressive 11.18% positive deviation! Because of this stellar performance, the port now gets the green light to face an external audit by TÜV SÜD Philippines. This step keeps their ISO 9001:2015 certification alive and kicking since August 2022.
Gear Up for the Next Level: Mock Audits and Big-Picture Wins
Now, let's shift gears to the prep work that's happening behind the scenes. The Port Operations Division and the Sub-Port of the Mindanao Container Terminal just tackled their very first mock audit. Why? To weave their processes right into the main port's setup, making sure everything stays consistent and aligned. This move boosts efficiency across all corners of the Port of Cagayan de Oro, and it's super exciting to see them gearing up like this.
In a heartfelt shoutout, District Collector Zurbito thanked the whole crew for their hustle and prep, which locked in compliance with ISO 9001:2015 standards. He said, “May this result inspire us to take ownership of our processes, to work collaboratively, and to uphold integrity and accountability in everything we do. As we move forward, let this audit guide us in strengthening our systems, enhancing our efficiency, and delivering even greater value to those we serve – our stakeholders.” Moreover, this whole vibe ties perfectly into Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno's reform agenda, all about integrity, accountability, and modernization. By chasing international standards, the port keeps pushing for better service and smoother customs flows. What a win for everyone involved – can't wait to see what's next!
