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The Bureau of Customs recently set up the Balikbayan Action Center to protect overseas Filipino workers’ shipments and guarantee that balikbayan boxes are handled with integrity and efficiency
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Customs commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the BAC reinforces the Bureau’s commitment to overseas Filipinos by addressing recurring concerns on balikbayan box processing
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The BAC’s responsibilities include in-depth research and analysis of concerns related to balikbayan boxes in customs processes, and identifying best practices from other countries to improve efficiency
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently set up the Balikbayan Action Center (BAC) to protect overseas Filipino workers’ (OFWs) shipments and guarantee that balikbayan boxes are handled with integrity and efficiency.
Customs commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the BAC reinforces the Bureau’s commitment to overseas Filipinos by addressing recurring concerns on balikbayan box processing and implementing reforms that restore 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,” said Nepomuceno in a statement.
The BAC’s responsibilities include in-depth research and analysis of concerns related to balikbayan boxes in customs processes, identifying best practices from other countries to improve efficiency, transparency, and fairness.
It will explore collaboration with other government agencies, and implement initiatives necessary to fully address balikbayan box-related concerns.
The unit is headed by the Assessment and Operations Coordinating Group, with the Assistant Commissioner, Post Clearance Audit Group, serving as spokesperson, and members from the Port Operations Service, the Public Information and Assistance Division, and other relevant offices.
BAC has been directed to submit an initial report within 30 days from receipt of the memorandum, followed by monthly updates.
