Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) can finally send home tax-free balikbayan boxes!
The customs bureau and finance department sign signed the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act that allows OFWs to send balikbayan boxes with tax- and duty-free privileges, according ot local reports!
The rule will be implemented starting on Christmas Day.
Filipinos who will be sending balikbayan boxes home must certify that only personal items and household goods that are not in commercial quantities are inside the box.
According to reports, the customs order states that those who are eligible for duty- and tax-free privileges on balikbayan boxes are:
Holders of valid passport issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and certified by either the Department of Labor and Employment or the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration for overseas employment purposes; Filipinos who have established permanent residency abroad but retained their citizenship; and Filipinos who are holders of student, tourist or investor visas or similar ones allowing them to temporarily stay abroad.
Those who are qualified will be asked to submit photocopies of either Philippine or foreign passport, including personal information, picture and signature; proof of copy of dual citizenship for Filipino dual citizens; and invoice, receipt or similar documents detailing the items inside the balikbayan box.
Filipinos abroad must also complete an information sheet provided by the Bureau of Customs, to serve as the packing list.
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