Thread by @abaisley

1/10: Just listened to an episode of @99piorg about Balikbayan boxes. These are large boxes filled with goods that Filipinos living abroad send back home.

My wife and I send these boxes frequently. It's a fascinating blend of economics and culture.

2/10: The Balikbayan box system is a testament to the power of remittances. Filipinos abroad send an estimated $33 billion back home annually. That's about 10% of the Philippines' GDP.

10%!

3/10: The economic impact of these boxes is profound. They're filled with goods that are often cheaper or unavailable in the Philippines, but also with stuff that just help make families feel connected.

4/10: The boxes are also a form of informal trade. They bypass traditional import/export channels, which can be costly and time-consuming. This is a fascinating example of how people adapt to economic circumstances.

5/10: The Balikbayan box system also has a significant impact on the shipping industry. Companies have sprung up specifically to handle these boxes, creating jobs and contributing to the economy.

You can find them all over Singapore, especially at Lucky Plaza.

6/10: But it's not just about economics. These boxes are also about maintaining connections with home. They're filled with love and care, each item carefully chosen. It's a tangible link between the Filipino diaspora and their families back home.

7/10: Sending these boxes is a personal experience for us. We carefully selects items that we knows our family will love and use. It's a way for us to stay connected with them, even from afar.

8/10: It's also a small way for us to contribute to the economy. We're aware that the goods we send can make a difference, whether it's by saving our family money or by being resold to benefit the local economy.

9/10: The Balikbayan box system is a powerful example of how economics and culture intersect. It's a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of the Filipino people.

10/10: I highly recommend giving this @99piorg podcast a listen. It's a fascinating exploration of a system that's deeply personal to many, including us, and has far-reaching economic impacts. #BalikbayanBoxes #Economics #Culture

I hope you've found this thread helpful.

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