Each type of dry fruit offers unique benefits, from heart-healthy almonds to brain-boosting walnuts and energy-packed dates
With 10 Filipino flight attendants facing smuggling charges after being caught with onions in their suitcases, many expats in the UAE were left confused about what they can and cannot carry for their families back home.
Many argued that the quantities of onions seized could still be considered "for personal use", especially since the price of the staple vegetable had soared to Dh40 per kilogramme. So, why was it considered illegal when it appeared like they wouldn't be selling them anyway?
Even senators in the Philippines are questioning the Customs' inspections, saying the confiscation was 'unacceptable', even 'cruel'.
The Bureau of Customs (BoC) has been following a 2015 memorandum, which states that bringing in fresh, unprocessed food — even in quantities for personal use — is not allowed, unless prior clearance from the Department of Agriculture is obtained. An official at the Philippine Consulate in Dubai and the Northern Emirates explained the process in a previous Khaleej Times report.
The same memo — a four-page circular — contains other important details on the items that overseas Filipinos are allowed to bring. It was released by the BoC, in partnership with the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration.
Certain limits have been set on items like perfume, soap, and even toys. The advisory specifies the quantities that are considered 'for personal use'.
Here's the list of items that can be packed into a luggage or sent to the Philippines via cargo boxes (without having to secure permits):
ITEM | QUANTITY ALLOWED |
Childcare articles | 5kg |
Toys | 10 pieces |
Perfume | 5 pieces |
Lipstick | 10 pieces |
Shampoo | 2kg (2 litres) |
Lotion | 2kg (2 litres) |
Bar soap | 2kg |
Assorted cosmetics | 1kg |
Household substances (such as detergents, fabric conditioners/softeners, dishwashing liquid) | 5kg |
In-Vitro Diagnostic products | 1 piece of each type |
Medical devices (except those used as maintenance, such as insulin needles and lancets which are sold by packs of up to 100 pieces) | 1 piece of each type |
Over-the-counter drugs | 50g |
Prescription drugs | The quantity should correspond to what was written on the prescription |
Vitamins, health supplements | 500g in total |
Processed/ cooked food | 10kg |
Wines/liquor | 2 bottles but not exceeding 1.5 litres |
The Customs said the covered products — whether declared or undeclared — will be seized if they are brought in beyond the limits and without clearance from the food and drug and health authorities.
"Those within the specified limit shall be allowed without FDA-DOH clearance subject to payment of customs duties, when necessary," it added.
ALSO READ:
Each type of dry fruit offers unique benefits, from heart-healthy almonds to brain-boosting walnuts and energy-packed dates
It can help to wake up your body and get it ready for the day. The right poses can stretch the major muscle groups and warm up the joints, while slow breathing promotes focus and can reduce stress and anxiety.
Panic attacks can be overwhelming and distressing, here are some effective strategies you can employ to regain control and manage them
With a little planning and effort, you can create a space that makes you feel happy and comfortable
As society becomes more polarised, the educational spaces for adults to learn from people with different points of view grow rare
These quick and easy exercises can help sitting professionals relieve stress, reduce muscle tension, and stay active throughout the day
Healthy eating might help protect your brain, experts say, but other factors play in as well
Procrastination can be a difficult habit to break, but it's definitely possible. By following these tips, you can start to take charge of your time and achieve your goals