BalabacTour.com respects the privacy of visitors and aims to safeguard any personal information collected through the site. This Privacy Policy describes the types of data gathered, how they are utilized, and the measures taken to ensure security. By continuing to interact with this Site, users consent to the practices explained below.
Information Collected
- Personal Data: When visitors send inquiries via online forms or email, information such as name, email address, phone number, and citizenship may be requested. For those reserving tours or packages through the platform, additional payment details (e.g., credit card number, CCV) could be required.
- Payment Platforms: The Site uses trusted third-party platforms such as PayPal to handle transactions. These platforms may collect details like mailing addresses, phone numbers, and card information. As these operations occur on external servers, personal data are subject to the respective platform’s security and privacy protocols.
- Cookies & Tracking Technologies: Cookies are employed to remember user preferences and analyze trends. For example, Google AdSense may deploy cookies to display personalized advertisements based on browsing history. Most browsers allow users to decline cookies, although some Site features may be affected by this choice.
Use of Collected Information
- Service Delivery: Basic personal information is essential for processing reservations, confirming availability, and responding to inquiries. In certain situations, details such as name and contact information may be shared with local boat operators, hotels, or government authorities (e.g., the Philippine Coast Guard) for permit or verification purposes.
- Site Maintenance & Enhancement: Aggregated data—such as the number of page visits or the most frequently viewed articles—supports efforts to improve user experience and optimize performance.
- Communications: Emails regarding new articles, promotions, or updates to the Terms of Use may be sent. Users can opt out of marketing communications at any time by following the indicated steps.
- Legal Compliance: Should it be required by law or upon lawful requests from government entities, personal information may be disclosed to fulfill legal obligations or protect the Site’s rights.
Data Storage & Security
- Electronic Records: Digital files are stored in secure Google Drive folders or on platforms with robust encryption. Only authorized personnel, including the website owner and IT staff, have access to these files.
- Physical Records: For walk-in reservations at partner offices, user information may be recorded in physical form.
- Storage Duration: Data are maintained for a minimum of 5 years, up to 10 years, as mandated by local regulations.
- Technical Safeguards: SSL encryption and other security measures are used to protect data transmitted through the Site. However, no internet-based system can ensure absolute security; users are advised to take steps to secure their own devices and networks.
Data Sharing & Third Parties
- Local Service Providers: To complete travel arrangements, necessary data—such as name and phone number—may be shared with drivers, boat operators, accommodation providers, or other third parties involved in the services chosen.
- Government Agencies: Certain Balabac trips, particularly those requiring local permits, may involve sharing personal information (e.g., name, citizenship) with the Philippine Coast Guard or other relevant authorities.
- No Selling of Information: Personal data are never sold or rented to external parties for marketing or similar commercial activities.
- Cookies & Ads: Google AdSense and similar tools gather usage data to tailor the ads displayed on the Site. Users may opt out of personalized ads by adjusting browser or Google account settings.
International Data Transfers
Users who access BalabacTour.com from outside the Philippines should be aware that data may be transmitted to and stored on servers located in the Philippines or other jurisdictions. By submitting personal data, users consent to possible cross-border transfers and processing in line with this Privacy Policy and applicable local regulations.
Your Rights
- Access & Rectification: Individuals have the right to request a copy of their personal information and to correct inaccuracies.
- Erasure & Restriction: Data deletion or processing restrictions may be requested under specific circumstances, such as the belief that stored information is inaccurate or used unlawfully.
- Withdrawal of Consent: Previous consent for data processing can be withdrawn at any time, although this may affect the provision of certain services (e.g., confirming travel reservations).
- Lodging Complaints: If privacy concerns are not addressed satisfactorily, a formal complaint may be lodged with the relevant data protection authority in the user’s jurisdiction.
Children’s Privacy
The content of BalabacTour.com is generally family-friendly; however, personal data from minors are not knowingly collected unless provided by or with clear permission from a parent or guardian. In the event of a suspected submission of data by a minor without parental consent, prompt deletion can be arranged by contacting the Site’s management.
Retention Period
- Site Inquiries: Basic inquiries stored in email form are retained for up to 2 years before secure archiving or deletion.
- Purchase Records: Information related to bookings or other transactions is preserved according to local regulations, generally between 5 to 10 years.
- Aggregated Analytics: De-identified usage data may be kept indefinitely for statistical analysis and site optimization.
Policy Updates
BalabacTour.com reserves the right to revise this Privacy Policy periodically. Any substantial changes will be posted on this page along with an updated “Last Updated” date. By continuing to use the Site after such revisions, users acknowledge acceptance of the revised policies.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding the collection, use, or sharing of personal data, please refer to the channels listed in the Contact Us section. Responses to concerns will be provided within two (2) business days when possible.
Visitors are encouraged to review the Terms of Use, Disclaimer, Disclosure, and Refund Policy for a full understanding of how BalabacTour.com aligns with privacy principles. Ensuring user trust remains a priority, and efforts to maintain and refine privacy practices are ongoing.