Extension of Balikbayan Program 1974-1976

The Balikbayan program is extended to cover arrivals made within the period September 1, 1974 to February 29, 1976.
The extension applies to persons participating in the Balikbayan program who arrive in the Philippines during that defined window.

The Department of Justice, through the Commission on Immigration and Deportation, shall issue policies and recommendations to authorize overseas Filipino drivers.
Overseas Filipino drivers who drive in the Philippines under the Balikbayan program are authorized to remain in the country for one year from the date of arrival.
The one-year authorization applies only when the driver’s arrival is within September 1, 1974 to February 29, 1976.
The authorization is implemented through policies and recommendations issued by the Commission on Immigration and Deportation under the Department of Justice.

The awarding of development funds as prizes to local governments for bringing in the most number of homecoming Filipinos is discontinued at the end of phase II.
The discontinuance takes effect on August 31, 1974.
The stated purpose for the prizes—making local governments appreciate the significance and value of Balikbayan—is considered accomplished at the end of phase II.

All concerned are reminded of Presidential Decree No. 439, issued April 22, 1974.
Presidential Decree No. 439 exempts from Section 105 of the Tariff and Customs Code, as amended certain possessions of overseas Filipinos who officially signify their intention to reside permanently in the Philippines.
Presidential Decree No. 439 also exempts overseas Filipinos from Sections 184-A, 185, 185-A, 135-B, 186, 186-A, and 186-B of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended in connection with their purchase of certain items and articles in the Philippines.
The exemptions are tied to the overseas Filipino’s official signification of intention to reside permanently in the Philippines.

The Balikbayan program is treated as having been a resounding success since it was launched on September 1, 1973.
Returning Filipinos are described as being given the opportunity to see for themselves the country’s progress under the New Society.
The Letter of Instruction directs encouragement for overseas Filipino scientists and technicians to come home to apply their knowledge to development programs and take advantage of the Balikbayan program.
The Letter of Instruction is implemented by preserving existing implementing policies under LOI Nos. 105 and 163 unless specifically changed, and by requiring immigration policy action through the Department of Justice and the Commission on Immigration and Deportation.