GPS rolled out to track down container trucks

The Philippines Bureau of Customs (BoC) is rolling out a state-of-the-art global positioning system (GPS) technology to track down container trucks leaving Customs territories, reported the Manila Bulletin.

The BoC would also accredit the GPS service providers and monitor the GPS implementation.

GPS is one of the cutting-edge technologies brought about by the information revolution. It uses satellites in tracking down anything that moves on earth.

The BoC is set to finalise the drafts for the Customs Administrative Order (CAO) that sets the rules on the operations of the satellite-aided monitoring system and the Customs Memorandum Order (CMO) detailing its operations.

When operational, the enhanced transit system is envisioned to stamp Customs seals with satellite monitoring devices upon the arrival of a containerised cargo.

For breakbulk cargo, barcoded tapes are used. Based on pre-determined destinations, the cargo is released and tracked in real time by computers based in any of the ports of entry from the time the hauler leaves the port to the moment it reaches its pre-declared destination.

In case a cargo is brought elsewhere, the team tracking those imported goods, notify the police. The diverted cargo is intercepted and confiscated. It is one anti-smuggling weapon that seems to be foolproof if it is made to work.

(Source: Cargo News Asia)