The Bureau of Customs had issued clarification on the issue of the recipient for Balikbayan boxes.
Pursuant to Customs Memorandum Order 04-2017, which took effect last 1st day of August 2017, the Bureau clarifies that our Overseas Filipino workers can still send balikbayan boxes to non-relatives in the Philippines but they can not avail of the tax and duty-free privilege.
BOC requires receipts for newly purchased valuable items inside the balikbayan box with an inventory of the box content. Sender is also required to attached a photocopy of his/her passport. Dual citizens sending balikbayan boxes to friends and relatives in the Philippines must also include proof of their dual citizenship.
The later requirement creates negative reaction to OFWs but BOC explains that this has to be, to avoid smuggling of goods.
Customs Commissioner explains that brand new (especially branded) items should be declared and should require receipt, but ordinary or non-valuable items declaration is at the discretion of the shipper.
BOC also stressed that the directive was issued to “adopt transparent customs rules regulations policies procedures consistent with the international standards and best practices and to prevent possible loss on revenue abuse in the availment of the privilege in tax and duty-exempt importation of balikbayan boxes”.
Customs Commissioner explains that brand new and valuable items require receipts but ordinary or used items declaration will be at the discretion of the sender.
There is also no limit to the number of balikbayan boxes an OFW may send to the Philippines provided total value will not exceed P150,000 in a year.
BOC also advices OFW that non-declaration of valuables inside packages will just cause delay in the shipment. If it will be seen during x-ray screenings in your place of origin, valuables or priced items could possibly be confiscated which add up to your loss.
The 22-page Customs Memorandum order 04-2017 constitutes the Implementing Guidelines and Regulations for the Consolidated Shipment of Duty and Tax-Free Balikbayan Boxes.
To facilitate your shipment, BOC advice that before sending package, it is best for OFW to download form and print out information sheet from BOC website; www.boc.gov.ph.
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