After nearly three years of waiting, three families in Kidapawan City were finally reunited with their long-delayed balikbayan boxes, thanks to the efforts of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) led by Secretary Hans Leo J. Cacdac.
One of the families received two boxes sent from Kuwait—filled with goods carefully packed and paid for by an OFW mother working overseas. The boxes were stuck in limbo for years, a painful reminder of how the sacrifices of migrant workers can be mishandled.
“Ginakalipay kami at nagpapasalamat sa Diyos. These boxes are not just material goods—they are the fruits of their loved ones’ labor and sacrifice,” said Secretary Cacdac during the symbolic turnover.
Alma A. Rios, one of the recipients, could not hide her gratitude. “Nagapasalamat ko sa DMW kay nakuha na nako ang Balikbayan box na gi hagoan sa akong anak sa abroad, madamo gid nga salamat,” she said, reflecting the emotional weight behind each package.
Cacdac emphasized the deeper meaning of the effort, saying, “For every Balikbayan box delivered safely, a family’s dignity is restored, and a promise is fulfilled.”
The event was made possible through the coordination between DMW, the Bureau of Customs, OWWA, and other agencies following the signing of a Joint Administrative Order and Deed of Donation aimed at addressing undelivered or fraudulent balikbayan shipments. The effort supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to protect the welfare of overseas Filipinos and their families.
