The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has released over 11,000 balikbayan boxes to their rightful owners since 2022 even as it processed the donation of more than 4,000 others to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
The balikbayan boxes were turned over to their owners after OFW party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino called for an investigation into alleged irregular practices by unscrupulous freight forwarders, both foreign and local, in handling such packages.
Magsino also filed a resolution seeking to address the unreasonable delays, loss, or theft of balikbayan boxes, as well as to examine the importation practices of manufacturers.
“The ultimate goal is to identify the erring parties and determine whether remedial legislation is necessary to prevent these illegal activities,” Magsino said.
Meanwhile, the BOC vowed to protect the interests of overseas Filipinos and ensure that their families receive the packages without undue delay.
Families of OFWs complained that thousands of balikbayan boxes from the Middle East have been abandoned by foreign logistic companies at the BOC after its couriers and consolidators abandoned the shipments.
In a meeting with the BOC officials, Magsino said the bureau has outlined several actions, including legal measures, regulatory reforms, and ongoing partnerships to ensure that OFWs and their families receive their balikbayan boxes promptly.
The BOC drafted Customs Administrative Order which delineated (CAO) clear guidelines for deconsolidators and consolidators handling balikbayan boxes.
The CAO aims to benefit OFWs by defining the roles and responsibilities of Sea Cargo Deconsolidators and Consolidators to ensure the proper handling, shipping, and timely release of packages.
The BOC also said it has taken legal actions against unscrupulous deconsolidators and filed 11 criminal complaints before the Department of Justice, while several other cases are under investigation for potential legal action.
