To safeguard the welfare of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), the government has signed a new Joint Administrative Order (JAO) to ensure the timely and secure delivery of Balikbayan boxes sent home by millions of Filipinos abroad.
The JAO, signed on June 9, 2025, was led by the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), with the strong support of several key agencies. These include the Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).
The initiative responds to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize the needs of OFWs and streamline government services.
“This is a concrete step to protect the trust and hard work of our modern-day heroes,” said Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, in remarks delivered by Deputy Commissioner Atty. Vener Baquiran.
The JAO sets clear standards and responsibilities for both foreign and domestic sea cargo freight forwarders handling Balikbayan boxes. It aims to prevent delays, mishandling, and abuses by unscrupulous players in the logistics chain.
House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs Chair Rep. Jude Acidre and OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa Magsino strongly backed the measure.
“Balikbayan boxes are not just packages. They represent the love and sacrifice of OFWs. We must ensure they reach their families safely and on time,” Rep. Acidre stressed.
Under the order, BOC will implement strict rules for the registration and regulation of deconsolidators and their foreign partners. A public list of accredited forwarders will be posted on the BOC website to help OFWs choose reliable service providers.
“We owe it to our OFWs to handle their Balikbayan Boxes with the utmost care. This is not just a duty. It is a moral responsibility,” Rubio said.
The move highlights the Marcos administration’s continued commitment to protecting OFWs and honoring the deep Filipino tradition of sending Balikbayan boxes home.
