The Bureau of Customs (BoC) is reminding overseas Filipinos and OFWs about the importance of dealing with accredited forwarding companies when sending “balikbayan” boxes to their loved ones. This reminder comes in light of the forwarding chaos that occurred in 2022, resulting in the non-delivery of thousands of balikbayan boxes.
BoC Assistant Commissioner and spokesman, Philip Vincent Maronilla, urges overseas Filipinos to exercise caution and only transact with legitimate consolidators and deconsolidators accredited by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). By exercising due diligence and verifying the legitimacy of these companies, Filipinos abroad can avoid falling victim to unscrupulous businessmen and fly-by-night forwarding firms.
According to customs records, approximately 1,000 container vans, each containing 460 balikbayan boxes and other consolidated shipments, arrive at the BoC every month. These boxes are sent by qualified Filipinos abroad, who can avail of duty and tax-free privileges under Customs Memorandum Order (CMO) 18-2018.
It is important to note that balikbayan boxes can be sent up to three times in a calendar year, with a total value per sender not exceeding P150,000, and the items or goods sent should not be in commercial quantities. To qualify as a Filipino abroad, individuals must hold a valid passport issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and be certified by the Department of Labor and Employment or Philippine Overseas Employment Administration for overseas employment purposes. This qualification applies to all professions, as well as non-resident Filipinos who have established permanent residency abroad while retaining their Filipino citizenship. Additionally, resident Filipino citizens who temporarily stay abroad, including holders of student visas, investors’ visas, tourist visas, and similar visas that allow temporary stays abroad, are also considered qualified Filipinos abroad.
Last year, the BoC ordered the release and delivery free of charge of 2,000 unpaid and abandoned balikbayan boxes sent by OFWs. These boxes were not delivered by local deconsolidators to their intended recipients. This incident highlights the importance of choosing reputable and accredited forwarding companies to ensure the safe and timely delivery of balikbayan boxes.
By following these guidelines and dealing only with accredited consolidators and deconsolidators, overseas Filipinos can have peace of mind knowing that their balikbayan boxes will reach their loved ones without any issues. It is crucial to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of these companies to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous practices.
Sending balikbayan boxes is a cherished tradition among overseas Filipinos, allowing them to send love, care, and gifts to their families back home. By staying informed and taking the necessary precautions, Filipinos abroad can continue to strengthen their connections with their loved ones through these special packages.
Source: The Manila Times
