DOT: Visa-free policy extended to Chinese from other countries

MANILA, Philippines - More foreign travelers abroad can now enjoy a visa-free visit to the Philippines.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) reported that the government has expanded the visa-free policy to Chinese nationals coming from other countries.

“The new policy is applicable to Chinese nationals with valid and current American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian or Schengen visa,” Tourism Secretary Ace Durano said.

Durano said the Bureau of Immigration recently issued Memorandum Circular No. MCL-09-006 allowing Chinese nationals who are traveling for business and tourism to enter the country without a visa and stay for seven days. 

“The department recognizes the strong contribution this development does to the continuing programs and marketing activities the country has been actively doing to spur economic growth through tourism,” he said.

He added that various government agencies and private tourism institutions are now working closely to enable the country to weather the pressing global economic challenges.

Tourism Undersecretary for Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque Jr. said the new policy would certainly help the Philippines attract more Chinese tourists.

He said the local tourism industry has been known to make holiday plans favoring countries with visa-free arrangements.

This, as Jarque disclosed that the Philippines will host the 10th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Congress (WCEC), which is expected to draw 3,000 Chinese business leaders to the country, this November.

“The DOT is working together with the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry Inc. in this significant event for the Chinese entrepreneurs. Indeed, the latest no-visa policy complements this upcoming event,” he said.