Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Balikbayan boxes that trigger an alert at the Bureau of Customs (BOC) will be opened and searched, according to a memorandum issued by the agency. Such an inspection or physical examination will be done in the presence of the consignee.

In a statement, BOC said “alerted balikbayan boxes shall be subject to 100% physical examination” in the presence of the consignee or his duly authorized representative.

It further stated, if the consignee or representative cannot personally attend the inspection, “a waiver from the owner of the shipment should be submitted.”

Watch: Honoring the OFW: The balikbayan box

The memorandum came after BOC issued a “no opening of balikbayan box” policy, that exempts balikbayan boxes from being subjected to random or arbitrary physical inspection.

“Alerted” balikbayan boxes are those suspected of containing contraband or items that are possible threats to national security (such as explosives, firearms, and illegal drugs). These will be opened only upon the written approval by the district collector of the port concerned.

Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon, meanwhile, asked the public not to abuse the balikbayan box privilege.

Also read: Balikbayan boxes to be tax-free starting Christmas Day

“Pabayaan nyo na ang balikbayan boxes. Privilege ito ng OFWs, maganda ito para sa kanila,” Faeldon said. “Wag sanang bastusin ang batas.” [Let us leave the balikbayan boxes to OFWs, it’s their privilege. It’s good for them. Let’s not abuse the law.]

The recent memo allows the inspector to recommend the issuance of an alert order or shipments tagged as “suspect” after an x-ray scan.

BOC said it is “intended to avoid cases of illegal smuggling through balikbayan boxes.”

Based on BOC’s records, an average of 1,000 containers of balikbayan boxes arrive in Philippine ports every month, and the government loses at least P50 million in revenue due to smuggling.

Also read: Bureau of Customs clarifies balikbayan box privileges