The Balik Probinsiya, Bagong Pag-asa Program, which aims to decongest Metro Manila and promote countryside development, is on a voluntary basis for Filipinos who are willing to relocate to their respective home provinces, Palace spokesperson Harry Roque said on Friday.
“This would be voluntary and no one would be forced to do so. Those who would like to avail of the program will receive incentives and livelihood projects under the medium and long term programs,” Roque said in a television interview.
Roque said programs would be created by the national government so that the public will realize that there are still opportunities and livelihood in provinces.
President Duterte on Wednesday signed Executive Order No. 114 which aims “to ensure balanced regional development and equitable distribution of wealth, resources and opportunities through policies and programs that boost countryside development and inclusive growth, provide adequate social services, and promote full employment, industrialization and an improved quality of life in rural areas.”
The “Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa” (BP2) program is a pet project of Duterte’s former aide, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, which aims to decongest Metro Manila.
The EO creates a BP2 Council to ensure a whole-of-government action of the implementation of the BP2 program.
Roque said the government is finding ways and means to assist those who wish to return to their respective provinces subject to the quarantine requirements.
Under the proposed Balik Probinsya program, Metro Manila residents who want to be relocated to their respective provinces after the Covid-19 outbreak will be provided free transportation and livelihood assistance.
The proposed relocation would begin once the Covid-19 pandemic is over.
Roque said the government is looking for best ways, including long-term solutions, to address the challenges that Filipinos are facing amid the health crisis.
“But the long-term program will be threshed out. But that has now become a top priority. Huwag po kayong mag-alala (Do not worry). It’s forthcoming,” he said.
For his part, Go said the Balik Probinsya program is a long-term plan that intends to help the public adapt to the “new normal” after the Covid-19 crisis.
The proposal would address overpopulation, traffic congestion and pollution in Metro Manila.
He added that the government would also be able to prepare for future possible disease outbreaks, other crises and natural disasters once the relocation program is implemented.