SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday welcomed the signing of the landmark Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on balikbayan boxes as a breakthrough in responsive governance and a long-overdue victory for millions of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families.
“Today’s milestone reflects what public service should always be—listening to the people, acting on their concerns, and delivering results that uplift lives,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“The balikbayan box is not just cargo; it is the story of a Filipino working hard abroad for the love of family. It deserves protection, and it has now been secured.”
The JAO—jointly issued by the Departments of Finance, Trade and Industry, Transportation, and Migrant Workers, along with the Bureau of Customs, Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau, and the Philippine Ports Authority—establishes a whole-of-government regulatory framework to protect OFWs and their “padala” from fraud, theft, and delivery delays.
It requires stronger monitoring of sea cargo consolidators, mandates clearer documentation, and enforces swift complaint mechanisms to stop abusive practices by illegitimate freight forwarders.
A Reform that Hits Home
Speaker Romualdez explained how the new policy directly benefits OFWs and their families:
“This reform gives OFWs peace of mind. No more sleepless nights wondering where their box went. No more fear of pilfered gifts or weeks of unexplained delays. And for families here in the Philippines—it means receiving those carefully packed items on time, complete, and untouched.”
He emphasized that behind every balikbayan box is an untold story of hard work, sacrifice, and hope:
“A box filled with canned goods, toys, clothes, and letters may seem ordinary to some—but for millions of Filipino families, it is a hug from afar. It is a mother’s promise, a father’s love, a child’s dream wrapped in tape and cardboard. That is what we are protecting.”
Recognizing the Champions Behind the Reform
Romualdez extended his deep appreciation to OFW Party-list Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino, who authored House Resolution No. 499—the catalyst for the JAO.
“Rep. Marissa Magsino acted with urgency and heart. She gave voice to the frustrations of our OFWs and worked to build a solution that is now a reality. Her leadership brought this reform from the committee room to the Customs gate—and finally, to every Filipino doorstep,” Romualdez said.
He likewise praised Rep. Jude Acidre, Chair of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, for building consensus and leading the legislative coordination that made the policy possible.
“Chairman Jude Acidre worked hand-in-hand with agencies, freight companies, and migrant advocates. His leadership ensured that this reform was not only swift—but substantive and lasting,” he added.
Delivering on Bagong Pilipinas
Speaker Romualdez said the JAO is part of the House’s commitment to the legislative priorities of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda.
“This is Bagong Pilipinas in action—responsive governance, efficient systems, and a government that truly cares. The House will continue to fight for the rights of OFWs because they are not just economic contributors; they are the soul of the Filipino spirit across the globe,” he said.
He reiterated that additional reforms are underway to alleviate the burdens of OFWs and empower them through laws promoting financial literacy, digital government access, and reintegration programs under the Bagong Balikbayan Act.
“To every OFW: you are not forgotten. You are not just remitters—you are heroes, breadwinners, and nation-builders. In the House of Representatives, you have champions. In the Bagong Pilipinas, you have a home,” Romualdez concluded.
