DMW, BOC sign JAO to protect OFWs from fraud

The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) signed a Joint Administrative Order (JAO) on Monday to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from fraudulent freight forwarders.

The JAO establishes a multi-agency framework to regulate the sea cargo forwarding industry, fast-track complaint resolution for lost or delayed boxes, and educate OFWs about unaccredited forwarders.

Under the order, both agencies will collaborate with other departments such as the Department of Finance, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Transportation, Philippine Ports Authority, and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration to enforce strict standards and responsibilities for deconsolidators and their foreign partners.

Since 1 January 2023, DMW and BOC have retrieved and delivered over 9,900 balikbayan boxes, with an additional 2,500 boxes received last week at the Port of Davao being delivered free of charge to recipients in Mindanao.

The initiative aims to address OFWs' concerns as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., emphasizing collaboration and decisive action across government agencies.

For unrecovered boxes, the government is offering financial assistance of up to PHP30,000 per affected worker through its AKSYON Fund.