Payment Application Secure (PAS) which is now on Version 6, is the official secure electronic messaging facility that enables the accurate and confidential transmission of customs collection reports between the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and participating Authorized Agent Banks (AABs). Operated exclusively by the Philippine Clearing House Corporation (PCHC), PAS6 ensures that all customs duties and taxes collected by AABs are reported, transmitted, and confirmed through a highly secure and encrypted channel.

 

Strengthening Government Revenue Integrity

 

The system was implemented in October 1996 following an agreement between the Bankers Association of the Philippines (BAP) and the BOC. Recognizing the importance of secure, accurate, and timely remittance of customs collections to the Bureau of Treasury, the BAP took on the obligation of ensuring operational capability and data integrity among its member banks acting as collection agents.

 

Through Project Abstract Secure (which was later renamed as Payment Application Secure), the BAP and BOC established a platform that:

 

• Safeguards the authenticity and confidentiality of collection reports and supporting documents.

• Restricts access to authorized personnel only.

• Provides full traceability of all transmitted data, supporting transparency and compliance.

 

How PAS Works

 

The core function of PAS is to transmit abstracts of collection from AABs to the BOC in a format that is both tamper-resistant and digitally authenticated:

 

• PCHC serves as the trusted intermediary for encrypting, validating, and securely transmitting data files.

• The system guarantees end-to-end integrity of each collection record from bank to BOC.

• Automated messaging ensures timeliness and reduces risk of human error or manipulation.

 

 

 

Role of PCHC as System Operator

 

PCHC was appointed as the exclusive service provider for PAS and since 1996, continues to operate and maintain the infrastructure. Its role ensures:

 

• Reliable and secure connectivity between AABs and the BOC.

• Consistency in formatting, delivery, and receipt of messages.

• Alignment with national standards for government revenue collection systems.

 

With PAS, the Philippine banking system reinforces its role as a trusted collection partner of the government, ensuring that the flow of customs revenue is both secure and transparent—from importer to Treasury.