It has come to the attention of the Embassy that some OFWs in Korea are resorting to the courier service in remitting their earnings to the Philippines, whose operators surreptitiously bring in huge amounts of cash at the Philippine port of entry without declaring their value.

The Embassy strongly recommends that this practice be avoided in view of the stepped up drive of Philippine authorities to curtail this illegal money transaction. According to Philippine Central Bank circulars, incoming passengers, including returning OFWs who are carrying over US$ 10,000 cash in their possession are required to declare the same in writing on the immigration form. This is to curb the money-laundering operation of unscrupulous people. Already, quite a number of OFWs in Korea who unwittingly availed of this practice have reported to us that their remittances have been seized at the airport and the courier subjected to criminal investigations. OFWs will be well advised to avail of postal and/or banking services in Korea to avoid the possible confiscation of their hard earned foreign currency. (Sgd) LUIS T. CRUZ Ambassador