The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) issued a stern warning to Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their families to exercise extreme caution when sending balikbayan boxes, following a surge in reports regarding mishandled and abandoned shipments.
In a move to protect the welfare of migrant workers and their hard-earned remittances, the DMW, in close coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), has officially advised the public to avoid transacting with MAKATI EXPRESS CARGO and any of its international partners or affiliates.
The balikbayan box is a symbol of the connection between OFWs and their families. To prevent these shipments from falling into the hands of unscrupulous operators, the DMW highlights the following risks:
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Abandonment: Boxes left in warehouses without being cleared or delivered.
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Mishandling: Damage to goods due to poor logistics management.
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Illegal Operations: Unregistered forwarders operating without proper bonds or permits. “Our OFWs pour their heart and hard-earned money into these boxes. We will not sit idly by while dishonest forwarders take advantage of their sacrifices,” the DMW stated.
To ensure that gifts reach their destination safely, the DMW and the Bureau of Customs (BoC) recommend the following “Check Before You Send” protocol:
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Verify Reliability: Before booking, check the official list of accredited consolidators and de-consolidators on the Bureau of Customs website.
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Avoid Red Flags: Be wary of forwarders offering “too good to be true” low rates or those with numerous public complaints regarding delays.
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Monitor Status: Regularly track the movement of your shipment through official channels provided by accredited agencies.
The DMW remains committed to working with law enforcement to shut down fraudulent cargo operations and ensure that the rights of Filipino workers are protected, both at home and abroad.
