Can I act as my own Importer of Record (IOR) in the Philippines?

You can act as your own IOR in the Philippines, but only if your business is locally registered and fully accredited with the Bureau of Customs (BoC). This includes having a valid tax identification number (TIN), a local bank account, and all required importer documentation. Even multinational companies with local entities often do not meet every requirement and choose to work with a third-party IOR instead. 

Without proper accreditation, customs will not allow you to clear shipments, regardless of whether you own the equipment or have a physical presence in the country. The IOR must also be able to complete any required permits. For many multinational enterprises importing IT hardware, this includes NTC and OMB permits due to the nature of the telecom and computer equipment being shipped.

What are NTC and OMB permits and when will I need them?

NTC and OMB permits are issued by two Philippine regulatory bodies that oversee IT hardware imports. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) regulates telecom and wireless devices. If your device connects to a public network, whether through Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, LAN, or cellular, it likely requires NTC type approval or an exemption. 

The Optical Media Board (OMB) monitors optical and magnetic media, such as DVDs and standalone hard drives. While OMB permits are rarely needed for modern IT equipment, it’s a good idea to confirm in advance, especially when shipping hard drives without software. Submitting documentation early helps avoid customs delays. 

What is PEZA?

PEZA stands for Philippine Economic Zone Authority, a government agency that manages special economic zones (SEZs) throughout the Philippines. Companies operating in PEZA zones such as call centers, BPOs, or data centers can qualify for tax and duty exemptions when importing IT hardware, as long as the shipment is delivered directly to a registered PEZA facility. These zones are tightly regulated, and equipment must remain within the designated area to maintain its duty-free status. To qualify, the shipment must be routed correctly and cleared by a PEZA-accredited customs broker. The result can be up to 12% in VAT savings.

Are there any restrictions on what kind of equipment I can import into the Philippines?

Yes, certain types of IT equipment are restricted or require special clearance before entering the Philippines. Devices with wireless or telecom features including laptops, phones, and routers must typically be approved by the NTC. Some brands, including Apple, may require written authorization to import. Devices like servers and hard drives are usually exempt, though it's important to verify. 

If you’re importing into a PEZA zone, the hardware must meet additional customs requirements to qualify for VAT and duty exemptions. Restrictions may also apply based on use case, labeling, or missing documentation. Checking early helps avoid delays or rejections at customs.

Read our NTC and PEZA import guide for the Philippines to ensure regulatory compliance and avoid clearance delays.