Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has welcomed the landmark signing of the Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on balikbayan boxes, calling it a milestone in responsive governance and a significant win for millions of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that the newly established regulatory framework provides much-needed protection for the precious cargo sent by OFWs, ensuring that their hard-earned gifts reach their loved ones safely and without unnecessary delays.
Safeguarding the Stories Behind Every Balikbayan Box “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,” said Speaker Romualdez.
The JAO was jointly issued by key government agencies, including the Departments of Finance, Trade and Industry, Transportation, and Migrant Workers, as well as the Bureau of Customs, Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau, and the Philippine Ports Authority. The initiative establishes a comprehensive whole-of-government approach to safeguarding OFWs’ shipments from fraud, theft, and delivery delays.
The reform enforces stricter monitoring of sea cargo consolidators, mandates clearer documentation requirements, and strengthens complaint mechanisms against unscrupulous freight forwarders.
Speaker Romualdez emphasized that this policy will provide much-needed assurance to millions of Filipino workers abroad.
“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 said.
The House leader credited OFW Party-list Representative Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino for spearheading efforts to push for these protections. Her authorship of House Resolution No. 499 was instrumental in driving regulatory action.
“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,” Romualdez stated.
He also praised Rep. Jude Acidre, Chair of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, for his leadership in forging consensus and ensuring meaningful policy coordination with various stakeholders.
The Speaker underscored that the JAO aligns with the legislative priorities under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s Bagong Pilipinas agenda, which promotes responsive governance and effective systems to support citizens.
“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,” Romualdez affirmed.
He further noted that additional reforms are underway, including financial literacy programs, digital government access initiatives, and reintegration efforts under the proposed 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,” he concluded.
