BOC expedites release of balikbayan boxes

The Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Manila International Container Port (MICP), has distributed numerous unpaid and abandoned balikbayan boxes of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) after local deconsolidators failed to deliver them to the intended recipients.

Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz ordered the immediate release of the shipments in the remaining 19 abandoned containers to the families of OFWs in time for the Christmas Season.

The BOC identified several deconsolidators in the Philippines: CMG International Movers and Cargo Services (CMG, for brevity), FBV Forwarder and Logistics Inc., and Cargoflex Haulers Corporation.

Their consolidators, all located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), are Win Balikbayan Cargo LLC (All Win, for brevity) and Island Kabayan Express Cargo LLC.

The consolidators agreed to deliver the packages to the consignees’ addresses in the Philippines. However, no payment was made to local deconsolidators, resulting in the non-settlement of duties, taxes, and other charges due to the BOC.

To resolve the issue, the BOC finalized measures to immediately distribute abandoned boxes with the help of various groups and agencies.

As of date, seven containers of Balikbayan Boxes consigned to CMG have already been distributed.

Meanwhile, three containers under Island Kabayan are ready for pick-up at the Portnet Logistics Inc., 2657 Old Panaderos St. Sta. Ana, Manila (Nearest Landmark: Our Lady of the Abandoned Church opposite Sea-Oil).

In addition, 16 containers shipped by All Win are also ready for pick up at Km33 Hobart Warehouse Compound, Brgy. Tiwala, Borol 1st Balagtas, Bulacan.

Pick up is on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Upon claiming, authorized recipients should present the Original copy of the Bill of Lading or invoice or any proof of shipping, two valid government-issued IDs.

An authorized representative may also claim on behalf of the recipient and should provide the following:

-Original Copy of Bill of Lading or invoice or any proof of shipping

-Special Power of Attorney or notarized authority to claim from the owner/recipient

-Two valid government-issued IDs of the owner/recipient with three specimen signatures

-Representative’s government-issued ID

For inquiries, please contact the MICP – Auction and Cargo Disposal Division (ACDD) through mobile number 0960-939-9870 or via email at boc.cares@customs.gov.ph.

The BOC reminds OFWs to exercise due diligence in verifying the legitimacy of consolidators and deconsolidators when sending Balikbayan Boxes to prevent being victimized by unscrupulous businessmen.

The BOC coordinates with the Department of Migrant Workers and the Department of Trade and Industry-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau to stop similar unscrupulous activities.The Bureau of Customs, under the leadership of Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz, vows to provide a world-class Customs service to Filipinos under the marching orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.