The Bureau of Customs Port of Zamboanga (BOC-POZ) on December 26 facilitated the release and distribution of balikbayan boxes to consignees residing in Zamboanga City and the Zamboanga Peninsula.

The POZ personnel received 84 balikbayan boxes on December 24. Most boxes originated from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates. They were addressed to the families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW), mainly in Zamboanga Sibugay, Zamboanga del Sur, and Zamboanga del Norte.

To claim the boxes, consignees need to present the following documents:

1) a Copy of the sender’s passport;

2) Receiver’s ID;

3) Proof of Shipping; and

4) Authorization Letter (if applicable).

An announcement was posted on the Port of Zamboanga Facebook page regarding the release and claim of the balikbayan boxes.

The BOC-POZ released 33 balikbayan boxes to verified claimants as of January 4 and continues to facilitate the distribution through the Customer Care Center (CCC).

The release of the balikbayan boxes is in line with the order of Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz to alleviate the plight of OFWs victimized by unscrupulous consolidators abroad. It is also consistent with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s commitment to improve the welfare and address the needs of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).#