A Filipino family in a village in Kidapawan City, Philippines, recently experienced a heartfelt moment of joy and relief after receiving two long-awaited “balikbayan” boxes sent by a relative working in Kuwait.
The packages, which included gifts and personal belongings, arrived after a delay of three years caused by pandemic-related disruptions, reports Al-Rai daily.
Maricel Nalita, a family member, shared that the boxes were sent in 2022 but faced multiple delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, global logistics issues, and shipping complications. “We were really worried because three years is such a long time. Thank God, the boxes arrived safely and everything inside is still in good condition,” she said.
The arrival of the boxes, which took place just two days ago, brought joy to the entire household. Inside were a variety of items that not only provided material support but also emotional comfort—gifts that reinforced family ties across continents.
In Filipino culture, “balikbayan” boxes are a cherished tradition among overseas Filipino workers. These packages are often filled with food, clothes, toys, and other gifts sent to loved ones back home as tokens of love, sacrifice, and connection.
The delayed but safe arrival of the shipment highlights both the emotional significance and the logistical challenges of maintaining long-distance family ties, especially during global crises.
