BOC turns over 2,954 mishandled balikbayan boxes to DMW for distribution

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday turned over 2,954 balikbayan boxes to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) for distribution to their intended recipients, the families of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

The turnover ceremony was held at the Port of Davao in Davao City.

In a statement, the BOC said the balikbayan boxes were originally sent by OFWs to their loved ones but were left unclaimed after being mishandled and abandoned by unscrupulous freight forwarders.

With the approval of the Department of Finance, the Customs said it officially declared the boxes forfeited and signed a Deed of Donation with the DMW.

The DMW is now tasked with ensuring that the long-delayed packages will finally reach their intended recipients.

The Migrant Workers Department has since partnered with a logistics provider to ensure the safe and prompt delivery of the boxes to their rightful beneficiaries, according to the BOC.

The BOC said the ceremonial turnover followed months of coordination between the two agencies, which began in 2024. —VBL, GMA Integrated News