The head of the Philippines' Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People has attacked a government plan to open and inspect cargo boxes, known as "Balikbayan boxes".
The boxes are duty and tax-free packages that overseas Filipino workers use to send gifts to their families.
The Bureau of Customs this week announced it planned to inspect the boxes amid suspicions that criminals use them for smuggling. It also says it plans to increase the "clearing fees" and taxes on shipping containers, which will likely increase the amount recipients of Balikbayan boxes must pay.
"By opening these boxes, they are exposing those hard-earned goods to abuses," said commission chairman Bishop Ruperto Santos.
"How will we know nothing will be taken? That something is planted that could be used against the sender?" the prelate said in a statement Aug. 21.
The prelate suggested that instead of opening the cargo boxes, authorities should use an X-ray machine.
He also voiced opposition to the tax plan.
"Those things inside are for personal use, not for business. They are not taxable, why tax them?" the prelate said.
The government is showing a complete lack of concern for overseas workers, he said.
"[They] are victims because of the government's callous and cruel plan. The government has failed to protect their rights, and now even cargo boxes are not spared," the bishop said.
Migrante International, an alliance of overseas Filipino workers organizations, also attacked the government move.
"What is the reason and rationale for this? Where will the tax revenue go?" said Connie Bragas-Regalado, chairwoman of Migrante.
There are about 8.36 million Filipinos working abroad, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs. Migrante, however, pegs the number at 15 million.
Customs Commissioner Alberto Lina said inspections have become necessary due to ongoing violations.
"There were attempts by some importers to smuggle goods, like clothes, bags, and perfumes using the Balikbayan boxes," Lina said.
The customs official said the government is planning to increase "clearing fees" for all containers — including those with Balikbayan boxes — entering Philippine ports from about US$2,000 per container to about US$2,600 each.
The tax for consolidated shipments might also increase from US$1,700 to US$3,850 in the coming months.