Taipei: Taiwan will extend its visa-waiver program for Philippine passport holders for another year starting August 1, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung announced on Friday night. Lin made this announcement during a reception in Taipei celebrating the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taiwan.
According to Focus Taiwan, the announcement was part of a news release issued by Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). Lin emphasized that the decision reflects Taiwan's commitment to enhancing exchanges with the Philippines, which he identified as a key partner under Taiwan's New Southbound Policy initiated in 2016. Lin also expressed hope that the Philippine government would reciprocate by granting visa-free entry to Taiwan nationals.
Taiwan initially began offering 14-day visa waivers on a trial basis for travelers from Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines in August last year. This initiative was part of broader efforts to expand exchanges and attract more tourists. Lin noted that the Philippines became Taiwan's largest source of tourists from Southeast Asia in 2024 and ranked fifth globally.
Addressing regional security, Lin highlighted the importance of collaboration between Taiwan and the Philippines to support peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. MECO Chairperson and Resident Representative Cheloy E. Velicaria-Garafil echoed this sentiment, affirming that Taiwan and the Philippines are significant partners in both economic and regional security affairs, as stated in the MOFA release.