MANILA (September 14) – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has established the Balikbayan Action Center (BAC), a new initiative aimed at protecting overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) shipments and ensuring that balikbayan boxes are handled with transparency, integrity, and efficiency.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the creation of the BAC reinforces the bureau’s commitment to serve overseas Filipinos, many of whom rely on balikbayan boxes to send goods to their families in the Philippines. He noted that the initiative addresses recurring concerns over balikbayan box processing while restoring public confidence in customs procedures.
“This initiative demonstrates our firm resolve to protect the interests of overseas Filipinos. By ensuring that balikbayan boxes are treated with fairness and transparency, we honor their sacrifices and reaffirm our duty to serve them better,” Nepomuceno said in a statement.
Under the memorandum establishing the center, the BAC will conduct in-depth research and analysis on issues related to balikbayan box processing, recommend reforms, and explore international best practices to improve efficiency and fairness. It will also coordinate with other government agencies, implement responsive initiatives, and carry out additional functions as necessary.
The center will be led by the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group (AOCG), with the Assistant Commissioner of the Post Clearance Audit Group (PCAG) serving as spokesperson. Its members include representatives from the Port Operations Service, the Public Information and Assistance Division (PIAD), and other relevant offices.
Commissioner Nepomuceno directed the group to submit an initial report within 30 days of receiving the memorandum, followed by monthly updates to ensure transparency and accountability.
He stressed that the establishment of the BAC reflects the bureau’s broader goal of pursuing sustainable solutions beyond its core mandate of trade facilitation, border control, and revenue collection. “This measure extends our efforts to safeguard the welfare of overseas Filipinos, whose sacrifices significantly contribute to the nation,” he added.
Balikbayan boxes, typically filled with clothes, canned goods, toys, shoes, and other personal items, are a cherished tradition among overseas Filipinos, especially during the holiday season.
