Manila: The Philippine government's week-long free guided tours and access for Filipino migrant workers to the walled city of Intramuros opened with a strong turnout on Monday, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported.
According to Philippines News Agency, the agency officially kicked off the 'Pasyal Pamilya' program, running from May 25 to 31, which grants overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their companions free entry to Centro de Turismo Intramuros and Fort Santiago through guided tours. Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay stated that the initiative was envisioned as more than a heritage tour, but also as a space for OFWs to spend meaningful time with loved ones after long periods of separation.
'Pasyal Pamilya is our way of honoring the sacrifices of our Overseas Filipino Workers and returning migrant workers by giving them and their families meaningful experiences in Intramuros,' she said in a statement Tuesday. 'Through these guided tours, we hope to create lasting memories, strengthen appreciation for our heritage, and remind our modern-day heroes that they are always valued and welcome home,' she added.
Maritess Holoyohoy, a resident of Baseco and former domestic helper in Saudi Arabia, was one of the OFWs who availed of the initiative on its first day. She described the experience as a good change of pace and a chance to relax after working overseas. Holoyohoy shared that among the highlights of her visit was the guided tour inside Fort Santiago, where she gained a deeper appreciation of Philippine history through stories and historical accounts.
Gaudencio 'Mel' Aplaon III, a 35-year-old seaman, also participated in the program with his family. Aplaon, who discovered the program through the DOT's Facebook page, expressed that the tour allowed him to learn about history and reflect on valuable lessons from the past.
The initiative is a collaboration among the DOT, Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), and Intramuros Administration (IA), and is part of the Philippines' observance of National Migrant Workers' Day every June 7. Beyond leisure, the agency said the program aims to provide OFWs and their families an opportunity to reconnect with Philippine history and culture.
The Pasyal Pamilya is open to all OFWs and returning migrant workers. Eligible participants may bring up to four companions and enjoy free entry and guided tours upon presentation of a valid Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) membership ID.
