‘Balik Capiz’ warmly welcomes returning Capiceños

Photos from Capiz Provincial Government Communications Group


A homecoming of 200 Capiceños from abroad and other parts of the country was warmly
ushered by the Capiz provincial government under its “Balik Capiz” initiative to rekindle,
rediscover, and relive their love for the province.
The list includes Filipino film and television actor Lloyd Samartino, who hails from Ivisan town,
and many others who joined a torch parade, “punsyon” and “binayle.”
Punsyon is an adaptation of a wedding reception and binayle is a benefit dance, which are both
popular traditions in the province.
“We are not only the ones living in the province who must love Capiz but including all of you
who are living outside the province,” said Gov. Fredenil Castro during the gathering of the
returning Capiceños.
The Balik Capiz is part of the Capiztahan 2024 celebration.
The province has ventured into a campaign to attract Capiceños working outside the province to
come home through its series of videos produced featuring the way of life and developments
province-wide.
“I really love seafood,” said 52-year-old Joebert Alcazaren, who has worked as a nurse in New
Zealand for about 18 years.
Alcazaren, a native of Poblacion Norte in Ivisan, was also thankful to the provincial government
for the privilege accorded to them by the provincial government, noting that his homecoming in
the past years was all for personal engagements only.
He also joined hundreds of spectators during the historical parade and street dancing at the Roxas
City Band Stand during the weekend highlight of the Capiztahan last April 27.
For her part, Santi Nonato Bayog, 78, from Las Piñas City was also thankful for the Balik Capiz
and its activities which made her homecoming more memorable.
She added that she would tell and convince her family members and friends to visit the province
and see for themselves the developments over the years.
The Balik Capiz Committee has also organized a “snack time” at the People’s Park in Brgy.
Baybay in Roxas City and an outreach activity in Ivisan town for the “homecoming” province
mates. (Alex Lumaque/PIA Capiz)