Balik Cebu welcomes balikbayans

CEBU, Philippines - Along with the devotion to the miraculous Child Jesus, the Sinulog Festival is also an avenue for many Cebuanos who have chosen to migrate to other countries for countless reasons, foremost of which is economic, to come home.

In honor of these modern heroes, who have helped our country stay afloat during the horrific economic meltdown of 2008/2009 through regular remittances to their relatives in the province, the Cebu City Tourism Commission, Sinulog Foundation, Cebu Holdings, Incorporated, Ayala Center Cebu, Amara and the Balik Cebu Committee hosted an elaborate dinner that featured Cebu’s best.

A peek on the Sinulog grand parade courtesy of Don Sergio Osmeña Sr. Memorial High School preceded an all-Cebuano dinner and the presentation of this year’s Ms. Cebu, Ms. Reena Elena A. Malinao, and her court.

The Balik Cebu program is a 9-year tradition, which according to CHI President Francis O. Monera, is a testament of how cooperation between private and government sectors could ensure the success of a project. – Ritche T. Salgado/Photos courtesy of CHI