Picture this. A clean and orderly port where stakeholders do business with ease, declaring shipments truthfully and paying the correct taxes for goods aided by the latest in technology.
In this scenario, government revenue collections skyrocket to the max, its benefits redounding to the people through improved government services, better roads, and public infrastructure, world-class school facilities for our kids, and improved peace and order in the community. A sense of renewed trust and confidence in government. New beginnings, a fresh start.
An impossible dream? Walt Disney, world-renowned animator and creator of well-loved film classics and cartoon characters once said: “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them. If you can visualize it, if you can dream it, there’s some way to do it.”
The scenario may look utopian, but not difficult to achieve. Many may even find the idea laughable. Imagine transforming a bureau with an unenviable reputation as one of the most corrupt agencies in the country into a virtual paradise where everything works without grease money crossing anybody’s palm.
But didn’t they all laugh when the Wright Brothers said men would be able to fly or when Thomas Edison unveiled his inventions?
As an action-oriented and firm (and sometimes stubborn) believer in positive change, reforming the Bureau of Customs is a Herculean challenge that I am willing to take on, despite the odds, trials, and ridicule I know would come my way.
I once recalled one distinguished visitor I had in the office remarking to me, “Congratulations on being appointed to lead the most controversial bureau in the government, you should watch your back.” A compliment for sure.
When I assumed the position of Bureau of Customs Commissioner in late July of this year, the first thing I did was to roll up my sleeves and brace myself for vicious attacks, particularly from those who would not want me to succeed.
I buckled down to work, with thoughts running wild in my head. Will I serve to please? Will I serve to lead? To inspire? To reform? I decided I want to be able to do all. I can also dream and strive to make it a reality, right?
To be a good leader, one must also learn to listen to the voice of others. So, I spent my first few weeks at the BOC meeting and listening to people around me, from the lowest in the ranks to big names in the industry.
My daily mantra was: “If I can dream it, I can do it.”
I keep hearing what President Bongbong Marcos said to me when I took my oath before him. He said, just do your job well, and it must always be for the benefit of the people. I linked what he told me with what I heard from stakeholders and the business community.
From there, I began drawing up a seven-point agenda that would serve my guideposts, the Bureau’s, and our stakeholders’ while I am at the helm, holding the reins.