The Department of Tourism (DOT) is expecting a surge in Taiwanese tourist arrivals with the launch of new direct flights and Taiwan’s extension of its visa-free policy for Filipinos.

DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco met with Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) Chairperson and Resident Representative Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening tourism exchanges between the Philippines and Taiwan.

Frasco welcomed MECO’s support in expanding tourism programs and fostering people-to-people connections, noting that Taiwan ranked as the country’s seventh-largest source market in 2024, with 213,833 tourist arrivals recorded.

The DOT anticipates further growth with the upcoming Taipei-Bohol direct flight set to launch in April 2025 and Taiwan’s extension of its visa-free entry policy for Filipinos until July 2025.

Both sides also explored joint marketing campaigns, the promotion of niche tourism sectors such as golf and diving, and the possible renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Tourism Cooperation to reinforce long-term collaboration.

Frasco emphasized MECO’s role in strengthening tourism and economic ties, highlighting the growing interest of Taiwanese travelers in Philippine destinations.

Garafil reaffirmed MECO’s commitment to maintaining Taiwan as a key source market, citing its geographical proximity and increasing travel demand, as both sides pledged to enhance connectivity and facilitate seamless travel between the two countries.