In a heartfelt display of gratitude, the Balik-Cebu Committee extended its traditional welcome to over a thousand returning Filipinos and tourists arriving for the Sinulog Festival last Thursday, January 18, 2026. This marked the committee's 24th year of recognizing the invaluable contributions of balikbayans to the province.
A Warm Welcome Led by the Mayor
Mayor Nestor Archival personally joined the greeting party at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA). He was accompanied by airport officials, key figures from Cebu's business community, and tourism leaders from both the city and the wider Central Visayas (Region 7). The mayor's presence was a highlight for many visitors, who noted they frequently see him on social media and were thrilled to meet him in person.
The Economic Power of Balikbayans and Tourists
The event underscores the critical role of the balikbayan sector, which includes Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). In 2025 alone, OFW remittances injected over US$3 billion into the Philippine economy. Simultaneously, tourists contributed more than PHP 3 trillion to the national coffers.
Their spending on accommodations, dining, entertainment, and shopping directly fuels local businesses. This, in turn, generates additional government revenue for essential public services, programs, and infrastructure projects. The Balik-Cebu Committee was originally formed in 2001 precisely to champion this sector during the annual Sinulog festivities.
A Modified Celebration with Unchanged Warmth
The committee's welcome has evolved over time. In earlier years, the celebration included large-scale entertainment programs and grand feasts at venues like the Ayala Center-Cebu. However, in light of recent calamities affecting parts of the province, the committee has opted for a more subdued approach this year, forgoing major festivities as a gesture of solidarity with those still recovering, especially families who have suffered losses.
Despite the scaled-back program, the returning Filipinos and tourists expressed deep appreciation for the warm reception. The airport's arrival areas came alive with spontaneous singing and dancing from some of the arrivals. Many eagerly took photos with the officials, creating lasting memories of their homecoming. Emotions ran high, with some balikbayans unable to hold back tears, likely overwhelmed by longing for their homeland.
In total, the Balik-Cebu Committee welcomed passengers from three international and one domestic flight at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 of MCIA, successfully greeting over one thousand individuals. To all balikbayans and tourists, the heartfelt message remains: Pit Senyor!
