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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider 'Balikan ang Pilipinas' drive invites balikbayan tourists

'Balikan ang Pilipinas' drive invites balikbayan tourists

Published Dec 28, 2020 03:28 pm

The Department of Tourism (DOT) launched a new campaign called “Balikan ang Pilipinas” to encourage balikbayan to travel to the Philippines this holiday season and visit the country's tourism destinations with their loved ones.

The campaign also aims to revive the livelihood of millions of tourism workers who lost their jobs amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This will run until the first quarter next year, which aims to inform balikbayans on what to expect and prepare on their return home. Programs will include a microsite, unique tour packages, and a special online-event for them to enjoy.

"With the campaign, we welcome our balikbayans back home, who now have the opportunity to be together with their families and friends. This is the chance for them to create new memories while visiting destinations that are now open and safe for tourists,” Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat said. 

"This is the main reason why the DOT has focused on establishing and promoting safe tourism under the new normal. We're enforcing stringent safety protocols so that we can resume tourism activities sooner, while ensuring the protection of everyone,” she added. 

The campaign was launched with the online release of the music video featuring the song Mundo by Original Filipino Music (OPM) band IV of Spades, rendered by the award-winning The Loboc Children's Choir, and Mikey Amistoso, frontman of cult-favorite Ciudad.

The Philippine government recently opened its borders to balikbayans and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), enabling them to return to the country.

Puyat said allowing entry of balikbayans or former Filipino citizens into the country during the holiday season is a great cause for celebration for millions of families who long for the homecoming of their relatives abroad.  

To know about the destinations that have reopened and their respective travel requirements, visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel.

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