Filipino Americans have been sending gifts and care packages to relatives in the Philippines through “balikbayan boxes” since the 1970s, according to reporting summarized from multiple outlets. The tradition spans both people who personally haul boxes when they travel and those who mail packages directly to family members. The boxes typically contain items sourced from the United States and are widely described as a way to express love, support, and solidarity—especially during periods of difficult economic conditions in the Philippines.
The term “balikbayan” combines Tagalog words meaning “return” (“balik”) and “homeland” (“bayan”). The practice is linked to tourism initiatives associated with President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., which he established in 1973 and framed around encouraging Filipinos abroad to return and visit. In that context, the broader idea of travel back to the homeland becomes part of how communities maintain family ties through tangible shipments.
Overall, the sources describe balikbayan boxes as a long-running household practice that helps keep connections strong between Filipino families across countries.
