The Bureau of Customs (BOC) participated in a meeting convened by OFW Party List Representative Congresswoman Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino to address the urgent issue of abandoned balikbayan boxes due to unscrupulous consolidators and deconsolidators. During the meeting, the BOC outlined its actions, including legal measures, regulatory reforms, and ongoing partnerships to ensure that Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families receive their balikbayan boxes without delay.

As of today, the BOC has successfully released and distributed over 11,000 balikbayan boxes to their rightful owners since 2022. Currently, the BOC is processing the donation of more than 4,000 abandoned balikbayan boxes to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), which will oversee their distribution to OFWs. This initiative is part of the BOC’s commitment in safeguarding the interests of overseas Filipinos and ensure that they receive their packages without undue delay.

A key development in the BOC’s regulatory framework is the draft Customs Administrative Order (CAO), which outlines clear guidelines for deconsolidators and consolidators handling balikbayan boxes. This draft 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 draft CAO has been submitted to the Department of Finance (DOF) and is currently undergoing review and revisions by the BOC’s Legal Service based on the DOF’s feedback.

The BOC has also taken legal actions against unscrupulous deconsolidators, filing 11 criminal complaints before the Department of Justice. Additionally, several other cases are under investigation for potential legal action. The bureau remains vigilant in pursuing legal remedies to hold these deconsolidators accountable.

Congresswoman Magsino expressed her appreciation for the BOC’s efforts, particularly in assisting OFWs in receiving their balikbayan boxes. She also highlighted a House Resolution calling for an investigation into fraudulent practices and scams perpetrated by fake and unscrupulous freight forwarders, both international and local. The resolution seeks 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.

The meeting was attended by key officials from the BOC, including Assistant Commissioner Vincent Philip Maronilla, Port Operations Service Director Atty. Geniefelle Lagmay, and Manila International Container Port District Collector Rizalino Jose Torralba, among other BOC officials and representatives.

Assistant Commissioner Maronilla emphasized the BOC’s commitment in fully supporting the investigation, stating, “The Bureau of Customs welcomes this investigation and is prepared to participate actively in the process. We deeply appreciate Congresswoman Magsino’s initiative and continued support in addressing the concerns of our OFWs. Given our limited jurisdiction over deconsolidators, we see the need for legislation and a whole-of-government approach to finally resolve the persistent issues surrounding balikbayan boxes.”

Through stronger enforcement, clear regulations, and collaborative efforts, the BOC remains steadfast in its mission to protect the welfare of overseas Filipinos and their families.

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