The Bureau of Customs has decided to donate to the Department of Education personal computers, laptops, and other electronic devices it previously seized at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and bonded warehouses.
This initiative, according to Port of NAIA district collector Carmelita Talusan, is in line with the directive of Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero to help the government in its distance learning program, and as the bureau’s contribution in addressing the ill effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The coronavirus disease outbreak prompted the government to suspend face-to-face or regular classroom classes and shift to distance learning program.
Among the items to be donated include 13 brand new laptop computers, 228 mobile phones, 665 flash drives, 74 units of HD LED computer monitors, various tablets, printers, routers, pocket WiFis, educational books, and school bags and shoes.
“The Bureau Customs is hoping that the gadgets will be of help in the blended learning program of DepEd and be able to support this new learning modalities of students in different communities,” said Talusan.
To ensure the items for donation have passed the minimum standards and are safe for public use, the bureau obtained appropriate clearances from the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC) and the Optical Media Board (OMB).
Late last August, Customs-NAIA also donated to the Department of Social Welfare and Development shipment of tents that the agency needed to assist individuals affected by the COVID-19.
The tents were part of the goods in the Port of NAIA declared as abandoned in 2019.
The Emperor Bell Tents of 6 x 4x 2.5 meters size can house 10 people designed to withstand severe weather conditions, while the 2 stretch tents measuring 12 x 9 meters can serve as mobile command centers, clinics or infirmaries.
Both large tents can be assembled within 15 minutes and taken down completely within 10 minutes. “Under the leadership of Commissioner Guerrero, the bureau shall continuously support the government’s relief and humanitarian efforts as the entire country battles the ill effects of COVID pandemic and other national calamities,” said Talusan.
