OFWs get balikbayan boxes after long wait

MANILA, Philippines —  Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) have received their balikbayan boxes after a long wait.

The balikbayan boxes are among shipments abandoned and left undelivered by freight forwarders, and are now being distributed to OFWs and their families.

The release and delivery of the abandoned boxes are being carried out with the help and support of President Marcos, who has expressed full support for the government’s efforts to assist OFWs affected by fraudulent and irresponsible freight forwarding companies.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) clarified that the prolonged delay in the delivery of these shipments was caused by the failure of certain deconsolidators and freight forwarders to fulfill their obligations, despite having already collected payment from OFWs abroad.

To hold those responsible accountable, the BOC accompanied the OFWs in filing cases with the National Bureau of Investigation on Dec. 4.

At present, 15 containers of abandoned balikbayan boxes have been released and are currently being delivered, while 21 more are scheduled to be pulled out and processed this week.

OFWs were also reminded to be more cautious in choosing freight forwarders, to ensure that companies are legitimate, and to avoid offers with unrealistically low fees that may lead to fraud.

As additional assistance, the BOC will continue to issue official advisories and updates through its official platforms to help provide accurate information to the public.