Taking a firm stand against the neglect of Overseas Filipino Workers’ (OFWs) welfare, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) led a multi-agency inspection at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) yesterday to address the issue of abandoned balikbayan boxes and hold negligent freight forwarders accountable.
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno spearheaded the activity alongside representatives from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW). The joint operation underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that the hard-earned gifts of OFWs reach their families without delay.
During the inspection, Commissioner Nepomuceno announced the immediate suspension of privileges for the deconsolidators responsible for the abandoned shipments.
-
Blacklisting: These companies are now barred from transacting with the BOC.
-
Future Ban: The suspension ensures that these entities can no longer handle balikbayan boxes.
-
Criminal Investigation: The NBI is currently gathering evidence to file formal charges against the responsible companies. “What is most important now is that we hold accountable those who failed—whether by negligence or intent—to deliver these boxes to our OFWs,” Commissioner Nepomuceno stated. “We are sending a clear message: neglecting responsibilities toward our migrant workers will not be tolerated.”
The BOC has been working tirelessly to clear the backlog of abandoned containers. As of January 23, 2026, the recovery efforts show significant progress:
| Category | Status/Quantity |
| Total Boxes Delivered to Date | 8,020 Boxes |
| Containers Already Released | 66 Containers |
| Containers Pending Release | 74 Containers (Sorting & delivery to commence) |
With the completion of necessary legal documentation, the remaining 74 containers will now be handed over to logistics partners for immediate sorting and door-to-door delivery.
The collaboration between the BOC, NBI, DMW, and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) directly aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize the protection and welfare of OFWs.
While the DMW oversaw the proceedings to guarantee the integrity of the delivery process, the BOC also confirmed it has been assisting affected OFWs in filing formal complaints against the erring entities since December 2025.
The Bureau of Customs remains dedicated to transparency and responsiveness, ensuring that the balikbayan box—a symbol of the Filipino worker’s sacrifice—is treated with the respect and urgency it deserves.
