BOC steps up security measures as influx of balikbayan boxes expected to increase
The Bureau of Customs Port of NAIA (BOC-NAIA) has started stepping up border security measures in anticipation of the influx of balikbayan boxes and gifts from Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) on the days leading to Christmas Day.
In a statement, District Collector Carmelita Talusan said they expect parcels to increase as more Filipinos abroad usually send gifts to their relatives in the country.
"We are cooperating with other government agencies like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to enhance K-9 screening and guard against importations of illegal drugs," said Tulusan.
"In addition, the Port also deployed the Trace Detection System (TDS) to reinforce non-intrusive scanning capabilities and combat agricultural smuggling in the country," she added.