THE OFW Party-List has expressed satisfaction over the signing of a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) aimed at protecting balikbayan boxes.
The JAO, signed on June 9th, is a collaborative effort between the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), along with other agencies.
This action stems from House Resolution 499, spearheaded by OFW Party-List Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino.
The JAO establishes a whole-of-government framework that strengthens regulations on cargo forwarders to ensure the safe and timely delivery of balikbayan boxes.
It also includes a strengthened multi-agency complaints and monitoring system to guide OFWs in choosing legitimate forwarders and enhances inspection, documentation, and coordination with consolidators.
Rep. Magsino stated that this concrete action addresses a long-standing concern for OFWs. She highlighted the symbolic importance of balikbayan boxes, representing the love, hardship, and sacrifices of overseas Filipino workers.
House Resolution No. 499, authored by Rep. Magsino, called for clear and fair policies regarding balikbayan boxes, addressing complaints of delays, abuses, and unfair practices. The resolution was discussed with the support of House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs (COWA) Chairman Jude Acidre, leading to a series of hearings beginning in December 2024.
The JAO is the result of dialogues with OFWs, cargo forwarding companies, and government agencies. It is expected to curb anomalies and alleged collusion between some Bureau of Customs personnel and cargo forwarders.
