DOT expects increase in balikbayan arrivals

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) expects increased balikbayan arrivals in the next five years as a result of the declaration of the years 2011 to 2016 as “Homecoming Years for Pinoys.”

President Aquino issued Proclamation 181, which aims to boost tourism by attracting balikbayans to reunite with their families in the Philippines any- time of the year.

In a press conference in Makati, Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim said there are now more developments carried out in hotels and resorts nationwide.

He also noted that airlines now provide affordable fares and more flights. 

“We would like to support the President in his vision to prioritize our Filipino kababayans abroad upon their return and enjoy their homeland for visits. Thus, we will actively promote this proclamation,” he said. 

Lim said the Pinoy Homecoming campaign aims to increase visitor arrivals from the United States and Canada by 25 percent this year.

Last year, there were 611,664 visitors from the United States and 107,923 visitors from Canada. For this year, the DOT targets to bring in 764,580 visitors from the US and 134,904 visitors from Canada. Of the 764,580 target number of visitors, 58 percent are expected to be Filipino-Americans.

Of the 134,904 target number of visitors from Canada, 60 percent are expected to be Filipino-Canadians. Lim said the DOT is targeting Filipinos based overseas because they have been consistent visitors. In 2009, the group made up 22 percent of total foreign arrivals.                

Most balikbayan visitors come from Canada and the United States. He said focusing on Filipinos based in these two countries will make the most impact on revenues.                                                       

“And we intend to develop this particular market segment,” Lim said.