Organized by the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in the United States, the 10-day program allows participants to experience Filipino culture and hospitality while exploring some of the country’s top aand emerging tourist destinations.STAR / File

292 Filipino-Americans to join Very Important Pinoy Tour

by · philstar

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 292 Filipino-Americans will join government-guided tours in Manila, Dumaguete and Cebu from July 12 to 21 as part of the 2026 Very Important Pinoy (VIP) Tour, a flagship program that reconnects participants with their Filipino heritage through culture, history and tourism.

Organized by the Philippine Foreign Service Posts in the United States, the 10-day program allows participants to experience Filipino culture and hospitality while exploring some of the country’s top aand emerging tourist destinations.

Upon arrival in Manila, participants will attend a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument before choosing from tours to Tagaytay, Pagsanjan Falls or Hidden Valley.

They may also opt for a community immersion with Project PEARLS in Tondo, a heritage tour of Intramuros and Binondo or visits to Antipolo Cathedral and Pinto Art Museum.

The itinerary then shifts to the Visayas, where participants will visit Dumaguete City and tour its museums, cathedral and the Dumaguete Belfry.

Optional day trips to Siquijor and Apo Islands will also be offered, featuring swimming activities.

Travel and tourism company Rajah Tours Philippines chairman Alejandra Clemente said this year’s itinerary highlights unique destinations in the Visayas.

The Cebu leg offers participants a choice of adventure and cultural experiences, including the Oslob whale shark encounter, Kawasan Falls canyoneering, the Moalboal sardine run and a Southern Cebu pilgrimage, culinary and heritage tour.

Participants may enjoy island-hopping activities, wellness treatments and an optional day tour of Bohol.

Launched 25 years ago as a joint initiative of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Tourism, the VIP Tour has brought thousands of Filipino-Americans to the Philippines to rediscover their roots and reunite with their heritage.