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RP launches Balikbayani program
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Posted on Mar 06 2000
The Philippine Department of Tourism has launched two programs aimed at giving further boost to the country’s travel sector while recognizing the role of overseas Filipino workers in nation-building.
A media statement from the Philippine Consulate said Manila’s tourism department launched the Balikbayani and “Discover Your Roots” programs early last week.
The Balikbayani program is an expanded and modified version of the Balikbayan program launched in 1973. It aims to establish a worldwide marketing network composed of Filipinos abroad to help promote the country in various overseas tourist markets.
Under the program, overseas Filipinos, who are at least 16 years old, are eligible to enroll for the Balikbayani program.
Every tourist that a Balikbayani brings to the country earns a corresponding number of points which will entitle the Balikbayani to win prizes such as free international and domestic roundtrip plane tickets, hotel accommodations, house and lots, jewelry, appliances and cash.
Under the program’s community enhancement component, the Balikbayani’s town that garners the highest points can win up to 500,000 Philippine pesos worth of community development projects.
The Discover Your Roots program invites third and fourth generation Filipinos born or residing abroad to rediscover the history and culture of their natural heritage.
