U.S.-based travelers who were slated to join this year’s Very Important Pinoy Tour to various Philippine destinations may receive a refund, the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles announced on Monday, June 1.

The annual tour — formerly called the Ambassador’s Tour — brings Filipinos from across the U.S. back to the Philippines, and was set to take place from July 19 to 26, 2020 with tours in Manila, Iloilo and Boracay. However, due to travel restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, it has since been canceled.

In an announcement, the Consulate General said the “refund will be done in the order of when said deposits/payments have been received” and that participants will “individually receive a notification regarding the refund procedures.”

Participants also have the option to put their deposits or payments towards next year’s tour.

Led by the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs, in cooperation with the Department of Tourism and Rajah Tours, the VIP Tour is an eight-day trip, featuring cultural, gastronomic, and adventure-filled experiences the country has to offer. (AJPress)