The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has set up a Balikbayan Action Center (BAC) to directly confront long-standing issues surrounding balikbayan boxes—shipments sent by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to their families in the Philippines.
In a memorandum signed by Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, the BAC has been tasked to study recurring problems in the processing of balikbayan boxes, recommend reforms, and adopt international best practices to ensure smoother, more transparent handling. The new body will also coordinate with other government agencies to safeguard OFW shipments from pilferage, delays, and unnecessary red tape.
The BAC will be managed by the BOC’s Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group, with support from the Post Clearance Audit Group, Port Operations Service, and the Public Information and Assistance Division. It is required to submit an initial report within 30 days and provide monthly progress updates.
Nepomuceno underscored that this initiative is about restoring public trust: “By ensuring that these shipments are treated with fairness and transparency, we honor the sacrifices of overseas Filipinos,” he said.
The move comes after years of persistent complaints from OFWs, many of whom have voiced frustration over lost or damaged items, excessive processing time, and lack of accountability in the system. With the launch of the BAC, the bureau hopes to finally deliver a more reliable and respectful service for the country’s modern-day heroes.
