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New rule prohibits random opening of balikbayan boxes by BOC

Customs officials are not allowed to open suspicious packages for examination until the receiver or his or her duly authorized representative is present, a memorandum issued by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) has pointed out.

Meanwhile, balikbayan boxes containing contraband or items that are possible threats to national security – such as explosives, firearms, and illegal drugs – will be opened only upon the written approval by the district collector of the port concerned, reported Rappler.

The changes, according to the BOC, are intended to avoid cases of illegal smuggling through balikbayan boxes, the report said.

An average of 1,000 containers of balikbayan boxes arrive in Philippine ports every month, and the government loses at least P50 million in revenue due to smuggling, it added.

Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon also reportedly reminded the public not to abuse balikbayan box privileges.
“Pabayaan ‘nyo na ang balikbayan boxes. Privilege ito ng OFWs, maganda ito para sa kanila. ‘Wag sanang bastusin ang batas,” Commissioner Faeldon reportedly warns possible offenders.

Before this latest memorandum, customs examiners were only allowed to open and inspect suspicious boxes in the presence of a representative from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), a designated officer of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) association, apprehending officers, and the freight forwarder consolidator, reported Rappler.

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