My father sent a "balikbayan box" last month and it just arrived last week. He asked me to get our "part" from the goodies he sent from our home in Baler. He's currently working as an Overseas Filipino Worker in Dubai. He sent 1 big pack of Nido Milk (2500grams + 250grams FREE), Sunmaid Raisins, Honey, Pringles, M&M chocolates, Kitkat wafer chocolate, Galaxy chocolates, Nutella spread, Liption Earl Grey Tea (as I requested), Date, Liption Original Flavor tea and other things. He's very thoughtful and generous in sending things to us especially to my daughter and my little sister Cynthia. Thanks Tay!
Right now there's a big issue regarding the Balikbayan boxes because of the random physical inspections being implemented by the Bureau of Customs. OFWs took their rage to social media about the BOC's inspection and implementing tax to the balikbayan boxes. For Filipinos, especially the OFWs, "balikbayan boxes" symbolize the hardwork and sacrifices of the OFW for their families. Its already part of the tradition to send goodies to their families, wrapping each item with care and love.
After the controversy migrant group declared August 28 as "Zero Remittance Day" and encourage the OFWs to participate as a protest to stop the random inspections and implementing tax to the balikbayan boxes.
*According to the Bureau of Customs, a box contents must not exceed 500$ in value and banned/prohibited items like firearms, explosives, prohibited drugs, ammunition, pornographic or gambling materials should not be included in your packages.
