BOC distributes abandoned ‘balikbayan’ boxes to OFWs

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said on Saturday it has facilitated the release of abandoned “balikbayan” boxes previously held at the Manila International Container Port, returning the shipments to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) after delays linked to freight forwarding issues.

The distribution was carried out on Tuesday as part of ongoing efforts to trace and turn over undelivered personal cargo to its intended recipients.

The release was overseen by the agency’s Balikbayan and Overseas Filipino Workers Action Center, led by Director Venus Apas, which handled verification and identification procedures for the claimants.

The BOC said the initiative is part of broader efforts to assist OFWs affected by shipments that were left unclaimed or undelivered, including cases involving alleged mismanagement by private cargo forwarders.

“This initiative forms part of the BOC’s continuing efforts to support OFWs who were victimized by unscrupulous freight forwarders,” the BOC said in a statement.

“By facilitating the recovery and distribution of these abandoned packages, the Bureau helps ease the burden on affected OFWs and their families,” it added.

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The agency also said it is supporting complaints filed by affected OFWs against Makati Express Cargo, which has been linked to the delayed or missing balikbayan boxes.

The cases are part of continuing efforts to pursue accountability against parties responsible for the nondelivery of shipments.