The Manila Times
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Friday turned over to the Department of Justice (DOJ) documentary evidence supporting its complaint against a local cargo handler accused of abandoning thousands of balikbayan boxes sent by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). The case was filed against Makati Express Cargo Inc. after 36,826 balikbayan boxes were left unclaimed between 2024 and 2025, triggering an investigation by customs authorities and complaints from affected OFWs and their families. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno led the turnover of evidence to the DOJ, saying the agency remained firm in its commitment to hold accountable those responsible for the abandoned shipments. Nepomuceno said balikbayan boxes carry far more than goods and personal belongings, stressing that they were the fruits of the sacrifices, hard work and enduring love of overseas Filipinos for their families in the Philippines. “These balikbayan boxes represent the sacrifices of our overseas Filipino workers who spend years away from their loved ones just to provide a better life for their families,” Nepomuceno said. The BOC said the evidence submitted to prosecutors included shipping and cargo records, warehouse inspection findings and other supporting documents. The DOJ is expected to conduct a preliminary investigation to determine whether there is enough basis to file criminal charges against the company and its officers.
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