Welcome to my two-part series on balikbayan boxes and my personal experience with sending a few of them for the first time prior to my move to the Philippines from the US.
In today’s blog post, I will give a general overview of what balikbayan boxes are and their significance in Filipino culture. In Part 2, I’ll provide a detailed explanation of how to packed them and the process involved in sending them. Join me as we explore the heartfelt tradition of connecting with loved ones through these special packages
I’m kind of excited right now because today I did something for the first time ever, I sent my very first balikbayan boxes to the Philippines! I had heard of these boxes that Filipinos would send back to the Philippines, but I had never seen one or even knew how to begin the process, but after a little research and a little packing, my boxes are on their way!
A Brief History of Balikbayan Boxes
The term “balikbayan” translates to “returning to one’s country,” and fittingly, the balikbayan box is a physical representation of that return. The concept began in the 1970s when the Philippine government formalized the process as a way for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to send home goods and essentials tax-free. The incentive aimed to keep the country’s heroes—its overseas workers—connected to their families and roots despite the distance.
Over the years, sending a balikbayan box has become a cherished ritual before every trip home, especially during major holidays like Christmas, when the spirit of giving is at its peak.
What Goes into a Balikbayan Box?
Typically, senders cram these boxes with a variety of items ranging from toiletries, clothing, and chocolates to more eclectic choices like local delicacies from the sender’s country.. Every box is a surprise, tailored to the needs and desires of the recipients, making each delivery a highly personal and anticipated event.
The Cost and Journey of a Balikbayan Box
Average Cost: The cost of sending a balikbayan box varies depending on the size of the box and the sender’s location. Typically, freight forwarding services offer standard box sizes with flat rate shipping fees. Prices can range from $40 to $200. For instance, sending a large box from the United States to the Philippines might cost around $100 to $120.
Average Time to Arrival: The journey of a balikbayan box is not a quick one. Depending on the origin and the logistics involved, it can take anywhere from 3 to 8 weeks for a box to travel from a foreign country to a doorstep in the Philippines. During peak seasons like Christmas, delays can extend due to increased volume, so planning and early sending are crucial.
The Cultural Impact of Balikbayan Boxes
The practice of sending these boxes is a significant part of the modern Filipino diaspora culture, symbolizing the enduring link between Filipinos and their homeland. It’s not just about the items inside the box; it’s about the sentiment attached to each parcel—the warmth and love felt across the miles.
Balikbayan boxes are a cultural icon unique to the Philippines, much like apple pie is to the US.
In my next blog post, I’ll share more details about the process of sending my first Balikbayan boxes to the Philippines. Until then, get out there and explore!