TACLOBAN CITY – The Bureau of Customs – Port of Tacloban (BOC-POT) has released abandoned balikbayan boxes to the families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Region VIII.
The boxes, consigned to ALL Win Cargo LLC and Cargoflex Haulers Corporation, were received by the port on December 27th, 2022. Of the 70 boxes delivered, 39 were successfully claimed by their consignees.
The release of the packages follows the directive of Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz to deliver them free of charge to the families of OFWs.
The BOC-POT, led by District Collector Francis Tolibas, is committed to immediately releasing the remaining balikbayan boxes in accordance with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the interests and welfare of OFWs.
Balikbayan boxes are packages sent by OFWs to their families in the Philippines, often containing gifts and other items. The release of these abandoned boxes is a welcome development for the families of OFWs who may have been waiting for their contents.
The BOC-POT is reminding consignees to promptly claim their packages and to provide the necessary documents to facilitate the release process. The port also urges the public to report any abandoned balikbayan boxes or other customs-related concerns to the appropriate authorities.