23 November 2010, Israel – The Philippines and Israel signed today the Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Government of the State of Israel on Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters on 23 November 2010 in Israel.

Deputy Foreign Minister Danny Ayalon signed the Agreement on behalf of the Israeli Government and Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia signed it on behalf of the Philippine government.

DFM Danny Ayalon said that the signing of the agreement is a landmark in the bilateral relations between the Philippines and Israel as it brings the two parties closer together, particularly in customs matters, while Ambassador Garcia noted that the agreement is essential for countries to safeguard not only their economies but also public welfare and international interest.  She conveyed that the Philippines is very fortunate to have Israel as a partner in this endeavor.  She also underscored that the negotiation process started five years ago has ended but stressed that the signing marks the beginning of another chapter in strengthening Philippines – Israel relations.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by the Director General of the Israeli Customs Authority Mr. Doron Arbely, Senior Director on International Affairs of the Israel Tax Authority Mr. Daniel Dragucki, Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) International Affairs Office Chief Mr. John Simon, International Control Office (also from the BOC) Wilnora Cawile, and the Officers and Staff of the Philippine Embassy.

The Agreement will establish the framework by which both countries will assist each other on customs-related issues, in accordance with the domestic laws of each party.  The following will be the major scope of the cooperation: