A new heritage program launched on May 25 to welcome Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The “Pasyal Pamilya” initiative provides free guided tours of the Walled City.
Thirty-four OFWs and their companions attended the opening day. The total group size reached 50 people. The Department of Tourism, the Department of Migrant Workers, and the Intramuros Administration lead the program.
Maritess Holoyohoy is a domestic helper in Saudi Arabia. She has lived near Intramuros for 51 years but never explored its history.
“Ang sarap ng pakiramdam, kasi kumbaga, ngayon lang ako nakalaya. Masarap pala magpasyal-pasyal,” Holoyohoy said.
She also added, “Kaya kapag umuuwi ka talaga ng Pilipinas, ramdam mo na pamilya mo ‘to. Talagang sariling mong bayan ‘to. ‘Di ko ipagpapalit ang Pinas sa ibang bansa.”
Regarding her experience abroad, she noted, “Ang dami nilang pina-experience sa amin na masaya, na kahit papaano ‘yung mga pinagdaanan namin sa ibang bansa, feel free kami ngayon. Kasi sa loob ng dalawang taon mahigit, nandoon lang kami, nakakulong sa isang bahay na wala kaming freedom. Trabaho lang talaga. Ngayon talagang masaya kami.”
Gaudencio “Mel” Aplaon III, a 35-year-old seaman, also joined the tour. He brought his wife and young son. He said the experience taught him much more than just sightseeing.
“Dati kasi pag pumupunta kami dito, picture-picture lang, tapos sabay uwi. Parang ‘yan lang. Ngayon, may mapupulot ka na kaalaman sa ating history. Napakahalaga po sa atin malaman ang mga kung anong nangyari dati sa kapanahunan. Parang na-reflect mo sa buhay mo kung anong klaseng halimbawa ‘yung dapat pahalagahan natin,” Aplaon said.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay said the program honors migrant workers.
“‘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. 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,” Angara-Mathay said.
The program runs until May 31. Participants must present an Overseas Employment Certificate or an OWWA membership ID. Each worker may bring up to four companions.
