Non-relatives can still receive balikbayan boxes from OFWs, BOC clarifies

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) can still send balikbayan boxes to non-relatives in the Philippines although they cannot avail of the tax and duty free privilege, GMA News' JP Soriano reported on 24 Oras on Friday, citing the Bureau of Customs.

This, as the BOC sought to clarify earlier reports that only relatives of OFWs can accept balikbayan boxes under Customs Memorandum Order 04-2017 that will take effect on August 1.

The order also requires receipts for newly purchased items in the balikbayan boxes, and an inventory of the box's contents. A xeroxed copy of the sender's passport is also required.

The new requirements did not sit well with some OFWs and freight forwarders.

During Friday's consultation, a BOC representative said only items of value will require receipts, while balikbayan boxes lacking passports will only result in the recipients paying extra taxes.

"Hindi mandatory. If applicable. Pero kung meron sinasabing ibinili ng panty, siguro naman hindi niyo kailangan ng invoice. Kung ang ipapadala niyo is medyo mga household na medyo may value siguro, yun (invoice) ang ia-attach," the BOC  representative said.

Customs Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon, for his part, said only brand new items will require receipts. He also said the passport requirement is to help curb smuggling.

"Yung mga brand new lang po lalo na yung medyo may halaga. Pero kung yung mga ordinaryo lang na T-shirt, hindi na yun critical. Pero kung may nilagay kang brand new na relo at 'di ka naglagay ng receipt, pag daan sa customs ng bansa na pinanggagalingan hinarang yan at kinonfiscate, ikaw na mawawalan kagad," Faeldon explained.

In an interview with DZBB radio on Friday, Faeldon also clarified that balikbayan boxes will only be opened for inspection if contraband items are seen during the required x-ray screenings.

OFWs planning to send boxes home are advised to download forms and print out information sheets from the BOC website before sending out their packages.

CMO 04-2017 constitutes the implementing rules and regulations for the Consolidated Shipment of Duty and Tax-Free Balikbayan Boxes. —Rie Takumi/KBK, GMA News