Customs lists firms allegedly abandoning balikbayan boxes

MANILA, Philippines — Customs officials reported yesterday 16 companies suspected of abandoning balikbayan boxes sent by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

“The companies have been reported for incidents of abandoned balikbayan boxes and have derogatory records,” the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said.

“The list was released to safeguard the interests and well-being of our fellow Filipinos,” the BOC added.

Identified foreign forwarding firms or consolidators include the Kabayan Island Express Cargo, Allwin Cargo, Manila Cargo, Mediacom Express Cargo, Pinoy Network Cargo, GM Multi Services Cargo, Sel Air Cargo, Sky Freight and CMS General Services.

Local forwarders or deconsolidators named were the FBV Forwarders and Logistics, Cargoflex Haulers, Rensworld Freight Logistics, CMG International Movers, ETMAR International Logistics, KC Door to Door Delivery Services and FGTI Forwarding Services.

OFWs are reminded by the BOC to “exercise due diligence when selecting a forwarding company to ensure the safe and timely delivery of balikbayan boxes.”

In a radio interview early this month, acting Customs Deputy Commissioner for internal administration Michael Fermin said they filed last year 11 cases against 10 firms for failure to deliver balikbayan boxes.

Fermin said the BOC is leading an inter-agency group that would require forwarding companies to be registered, as well as impose cash bonds worth P2 million.