The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has issued a public warning to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families against dealing with unscrupulous cargo forwarders involved in the mishandling and abandonment of balikbayan boxes.
In coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the DMW specifically advised the public to refrain from transacting with Makati Express Cargo and any of its partners or affiliates abroad. Authorities raised concerns over reported irregularities linked to the processing and delivery of balikbayan boxes sent to families in the Philippines.
The advisory aims to protect OFWs from financial loss and emotional distress caused by undelivered or improperly handled shipments — especially during peak sending seasons when many migrant workers send goods home.
Verify Before You Ship
The DMW also urged OFWs and their families to regularly verify the status and accreditation of freight forwarders with the Bureau of Customs (BoC). Ensuring that a cargo consolidator is legitimate and compliant with regulations can significantly reduce the risk of delays, abandonment, or fraudulent activity.
Balikbayan boxes represent not only material goods but also the hard-earned sacrifices of Filipino workers abroad. Authorities emphasized the importance of choosing reliable and duly registered cargo service providers to safeguard these shipments.
The DMW reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with law enforcement and regulatory agencies to address complaints and hold erring companies accountable.
Source DMW
