During the recent Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) meeting, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DoT) welcomed measures aimed at enhancing the country’s tourism industry, including efforts to liberalise visa policies and make the Philippines more accessible to international visitors.
The DoT supports the establishment of an electronic visa system to ease entry and the extension of stay for visa holders from American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, and Schengen countries, as well Singapore and the UK, from seven days to 30 days. This is expected to increase tourism spending and benefit local businesses.
Earlier this year, the DoT launched the Cruise Visa Waiver Program, aimed at boosting international cruise tourism. Additionally, the DoT supports the introduction of biometric technologies at the Bureau of Immigration to streamline arrivals and departures.
Tourism secretary Christina Garcia Frasco reiterated the DoT’s commitment to advancing the tourism sector, strengthening the Philippines’ global competitiveness, and working with government and private sector partners to promote the country as a top destination.
She said: “Together with our partners in government and the private sector, we will continue to champion the Philippines as a leading destination, offering rich experiences that benefit both visitors and the Filipino people.”
