Bureau of Customs launches parcel, balikbayan box tracking system

The government this week launched a tracking system that would allow recipients to track their shipments through different stages of clearance, ahead of the anticipated influx during the yuletide season.

In an emailed statement, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said it launched on Wednesday, October 30, the Parcel and Balikbayan Box Tracking System (PBTS).

Accessible through the BOC website www.customs.gov.ph, the tracking system provides updates on the parcel or balikbayan box as it goes through the different stages of customs clearance.

"A lot of OFWs are expected to send balikbayan boxes and packages to their loves ones here in the Philippines during this time," the statement read.

"The system will aim to lessen instances of scams being perpetrated by unscrupulous individuals. Claimants can verify the status of parcels and packages being processed by Customs," it added.

Signed into law by former President Benigno Aquino III in May 2016, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) put in place several reforms such as the electronic processing of shipments, streamlining of export and import procedures, and simplified processes for the seizure and disposition of illegal goods.

Latest data available indicates that BOC collections grew 13% to P59.209 billion in September this year, on the back of higher duties collected in light of tax reform measures. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/BM, GMA News