The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is expediting the release of balikbayan boxes of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) abandoned by CMG International Movers and Cargo Services and Cargoflex Haulers Corporation.

Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz approved the release after a meeting with the Door -to-Door Consolidators Association of the Philippines (DDCAP) to discuss measures to fast-track the release and delivery of the boxes.

The BOC already released 7 containers consigned to CMG inspected by Ruiz and the DDCAP last month and is expected to complete the delivery by the end of August. An additional 27 containers of abandoned balikbayan boxes will be auctioned off to the DDCAP and sent to the consignees.

“The BOC initiated this move to help our OFWs, ” Ruiz said.

Ruiz added that a Balikbayan Box Assistance Unit will be created to monitor the immediate expeditious release and delivery of the balikbayan boxes and to serve as the primary communications center of the consignees.