The People’s Committee of Phu Quoc, an island city off the coast of Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam, has announced a plan to manage the presence of homeless individuals, elderly people, children, and beggars during major holidays and the Lunar New Year holiday (Tet) to preserve the tourism image for both domestic and international visitors.

Pham Van Nghiep, vice-chairman of the municipal administration, signed a decision to relocate homeless individuals, beggars, the elderly, mentally ill and disabled people, and others living on the streets to the provincial social welfare center, an official said on Sunday afternoon.

The move is part of a broader effort to address the issue of street begging and improve public order during major holidays.

The group targeted for relocation varies widely, including those who are able-bodied but choose to beg, and others who are disabled, elderly, or mentally ill. There are also cases of people who falsely present themselves as beggars.

These people are often seen in popular tourist spots such as Duong Dong Market, night markets, and pagodas, putting pressure on the city’s tourism image.

By gathering them at the social welfare center, the plan is to ensure that visitors can enjoy a more pleasant and polished environment.

The Phu Quoc administration asked the city’s wards and communes to provide the group with education, training, or social assistance.

Those without a permanent address will be classified and sent to the social welfare center, where they will be given proper care and management.

The initiative will be implemented 10 days before key holidays, including the Lunar New Year, Hung Kings Commemoration Day, National Day, Reunification Day (April 30), and International Workers’ Day (May 1).

Phu Quoc welcomed an estimated six million tourists, including nearly one million international visitors, in 2024.

The city continues to grow as a popular tourist attraction in Vietnam as international tourist arrivals are on the rise. 

Over the past few days, two cruise ships have arrived in the city, carrying over 4,800 international passengers.

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