PGMN Anchor Hazel Calawod focused on the government’s latest effort to complete the delivery of long delayed balikbayan boxes to Overseas Filipino Workers, underscoring her continued advocacy for migrant workers.
The Department of Finance led by Secretary Frederick D. Go, together with the Bureau of Customs, has begun distributing the first batch of the final wave of abandoned balikbayan boxes. The rollout forms part of a broader effort to ensure that shipments finally reach their intended OFW recipients.
Government data show that the first wave covered 68 containers carrying 20,944 balikbayan boxes, with 14,305 already delivered. The final wave consists of 72 containers estimated to contain 24,536 boxes. Fourteen containers have been released from the Manila International Container Port, while 58 remain under processing pending clearances and waiver of port charges.
Officials said reforms are being implemented to prevent similar incidents, including tighter coordination with logistics partners and strengthened enforcement mechanisms against erring freight forwarders. The DOF and BOC also reminded OFWs to transact only with licensed and verifiable forwarders and to keep proper documentation when sending shipments.
Calawod said issues affecting OFWs remain a priority in her coverage, noting that the delivery of abandoned balikbayan boxes is both a matter of accountability and protection for migrant workers. She committed to continue monitoring developments related to OFW welfare.
