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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Frasco pushes for ASEAN visa

Frasco pushes for ASEAN visa

Published May 18, 2025 04:52 pm

At A Glance

  • The ASEAN visa would be similar to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) visa in the Middle East and the Schengen visa in Europe
Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expresses optimism for the institutionalization of a visa system for ASEAN members during a forum in Bangkok, Thailand. (photo: DOT)
Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expresses optimism for the institutionalization of a visa system for ASEAN members during a forum in Bangkok, Thailand. (photo: DOT)

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco made another push for a visa system applicable to countries that make up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Frasco explained that the institutionalization of the visa system similar to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) visa in the Middle East and the Schengen visa in Europe will further strengthen Southeast Asia as a tourist destination and will reinforce the ASEAN tagline "A destination for every dream".

“And the ASEAN visa certainly is part of that dream. To be able to unify ASEAN as a destination in terms of the strength of its natural assets, its unparalleled warmth and hospitality as a people, and as a culture,” said Frasco during the SKIFT Asia Forum 2025 held in Bangkok, Thailand.

“As Minister of Tourism, it is a proposition that I have tried to make at every opportunity. I am glad to hear similar interest from our fellow ASEAN nations, and we are very hopeful that the subject matter will again come up as the Philippines hosts the ASEAN in 2026," she added.

While some sectors expressed doubts of the feasibility of a one visa system over intense economic competitions in the region, Frasco stressed the value of regional unity while maintaining healthy competition.

In fact, she cited the case of the Philippines and Thailand which have been implementing “Two Countries, One Destination” under a Memorandum of Cooperation.

“Competition is always very healthy, but collaboration is healthier in a sense that ASEAN coming together to work as a force for good for the world would really benefit all of our countries,” said Frasco.

What PH can offer

Should the visa system be institutionalized for Southeast Asian countries, Frasco said the rich cultural tapestry and unique hospitality is one of the Philippines’ main assets.

“What we bring to the table in terms of travel and tourism in ASEAN is a story—a story of a proud people that is the result of generations of influence. We are a unique destination in that it's not one-dimensional,” said Frasco.

“You have many influences that have passed through the country that have resulted in this rich and diverse cultural experience that can only be had in the Philippines. While you're enjoying the beach, you can enjoy our lechon as a result of the Spanish influence, or taste our Bam-I as a result of the Chinese influence.”

“As you enjoy our Tuba, which is our local alcohol, which is also the result of other influences from other cultures that have come through our country. The end of it all is that you arrive in the Philippines as a guest, but you leave as family. That is the Filipino way, and that is the Philippine Experience that we are able to offer to anyone coming to the Philippines,” she said.

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