MANILA: The Philippines Bureau of Customs has temporarily suspended guidelines on duty and tax-free balikbayan boxes.
On Oct. 5, the Bureau of Customs said it will suspend two custom regulations on the balikbayan boxes. The suspension of the orders will last until March 2018. Under the previous orders, Filipino citizens who sent boxes to the Philippines would also have to submit a photocopy of their Philippines passport to get a government tax exemption. Other changes include not having to submit a proof of purchase or invoice for items in the box. The boxes sent by overseas Filipino workers contain objects like toiletries, electronics and non-perishable food. With the suspension of the guidelines, Customs Commissioner Isidro S. Lapeña said a team will be tasked to draft amendments to the orders.
