90% of Balikbayan Shipments Delayed Since March Have Now Arrived in the Philippines.
Dubai: Filipinos living in the UAE who send balikbayan boxes to relatives in the Philippines are being urged to use licensed and reputable cargo operators. An industry group has warned that unlicensed companies could take advantage of ongoing shipping disruptions, putting customers’ shipments and money at risk.
The League of Freight Forwarders (LFF), a subcommittee of the Philippine Business Council in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, has identified eight companies as legitimate and active members as of September 2026.
“The balikbayan box industry remains a reliable and safe way to send love to families in the Philippines,” the LFF said in an advisory.
Eight balikbayan box companies identified
The LFF has named the following companies as its legitimate and active members as of September 2026:
- Cabalen Express
- EGT Umac
- Frico
- LBC
- PEP Express
- Pinas Cargo
- SBC
- TriEagle
The group also cautioned customers about the growing number of unlicensed and unauthorised operators seeking to benefit from the current situation.
“In this challenging time, we also note the proliferation of unlicensed and unauthorised operators taking advantage of the situation. We strongly advise the public to transact only with legitimate and duly licensed balikbayan box companies,” the LFF said.
According to the organisation, using its member companies offers customers greater assurance that service providers are licensed by Dubai’s economic department and recognised by Philippine authorities.
The group added that shipments handled by legitimate operators are properly documented, monitored and treated with care. Customers can also approach a physical office if they need to raise concerns or resolve issues.
Consumers are advised to check a cargo company’s current trade licence and credentials before booking a shipment or making any payment.
Stranded balikbayan boxes begin reaching the Philippines
The LFF has reported progress in the movement of cargo containers and balikbayan boxes that had been stranded in the Strait of Hormuz since March.
According to the group, the shipments have been successfully rerouted, with 90 per cent having reached the Philippines.
The update offers some relief to Filipinos in the UAE who have faced uncertainty over parcels sent to family members during the shipping disruptions. Customers awaiting deliveries should continue to contact their cargo providers for the latest shipment updates and estimated arrival dates.
Deliveries to recipients are now underway, while efforts continue to ensure the safe arrival of the remaining shipments.
“We are fully aware of the concerns arising from the current tensions in the Middle East and its heavy impact on the global logistics and shipping industry. Due to rerouting of vessels, port congestions, and additional security measures, some delays in the transit and arrival of balikbayan boxes are to be expected,” the LFF said.
The organisation noted that although the delays were beyond freight forwarders’ control, they were expected to be temporary.
Member companies have been coordinating closely with international shipping partners to track shipments and ensure that all remaining boxes reach their destinations safely.
Cargo companies work to deliver outstanding shipments
The LFF has thanked customers for their patience, understanding and continued confidence as deliveries progress.
“We know that every box is filled with love and sacrifice, and we share your desire to have it reach your families. We also continue to hope and pray that we can deliver all remaining boxes safely,” the group said.
For many overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the UAE and elsewhere around the world, balikbayan boxes are a cherished way to send clothing, food, household essentials and gifts to loved ones in the Philippines.
However, recent reports have raised concerns about unscrupulous shipping operators accused of leaving families waiting for undelivered packages. These situations have caused financial losses and emotional distress for senders and their relatives.
As authorities continue to urge caution, OFWs are being reminded to verify freight forwarders’ licences and credentials and choose established, reputable shipping companies.
For Filipinos working abroad, every balikbayan box represents more than a delivery. It carries the care, hard work and sacrifices of those striving to support their families and provide them with a better future back home.
