MANILA, Philippines – In a move to assist overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), the Philippine Bureau of Customs (BOC) has announced that it will be donating over 4,000 abandoned balikbayan boxes to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
The decision was made during a meeting convened by OFW Party-List Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino on October 22nd, which aimed to address the growing issue of abandoned balikbayan boxes due to unscrupulous consolidators and deconsolidators.
“This donation is a welcome development for our OFWs and their families,” said Magsino. “Balikbayan boxes are a lifeline for many Filipino families, and we must ensure they are delivered safely and without delay.”
The BOC has stated that it is currently processing the donation of these abandoned boxes, which will then be overseen and distributed by the DMW. This initiative comes as the bureau has also taken legal action against unscrupulous deconsolidators, resulting in 11 criminal complaints being filed with the Department of Justice.
“We are committed to protecting the rights of our OFWs and ensuring they receive the care packages they rightfully deserve,” said a BOC spokesperson. “This donation is just one of the many steps we are taking to address the urgent issue of abandoned balikbayan boxes.”
The BOC has also outlined its broader efforts, including legal measures, regulatory reforms, and ongoing partnerships, to streamline the handling and timely release of balikbayan boxes for OFWs and their families.
A key development is the draft Customs Administrative Order (CAO), which aims to define the roles and responsibilities of sea cargo deconsolidators and consolidators, ensuring the proper handling and shipping of packages.
“The draft CAO is currently undergoing review and revisions by the BOC’s Legal Service, and we are confident it will provide the necessary framework to protect our OFWs,” the spokesperson added.
The lawmaker, Magsino, also highlighted a House resolution that calls for an investigation into fraudulent practices and scams perpetrated by fake and unscrupulous freight forwarders, both international and local. This move seeks to address the unreasonable delays, loss, or theft of balikbayan boxes, as well as to examine the importation practices of manufacturers.
“Our OFWs work tirelessly to support their families back home,” Magsino said. “It is our duty to ensure they receive the care and attention they deserve, and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to protect them.”
