To be implemented visa reforms to boost PH competitiveness, DOT says

By Philippine Information Agency (PIA 8)
March 23, 2012

TACLOBAN CITY  –  The visa reforms which will soon be implemented will boost the competitiveness of the Philippines as a tourism destination.

DOT Region 8 Director Karina Rosa Tiopes informed that the new visa policies was agreed upon by DOT Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Justice Secretary Leila Delima and Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Ricardo David.

Director Tiopes said that among the new visa policies agreed upon include the increase in the visa-free privilege for 166 countries/territories from 21 to 30 days.

Another new policy is the granting of a 30-day visa-free stay to Chinese nationals travelling to the Philippines as part of a tour group handled by a Department of Tourism-accredited Philippine tour operator.

Moreover, there is also the new policy granting a 14-day visa-free stay for Indian nationals who have a valid American, Japan, Australian, Canadian, Shengen, Singapore, or United Kingdom visa.

Director Tiopes said that the DOT Secretary underscored that the implementation of these new policies is part of the Aquino Administration’s efforts to attract more foreign tourists and spread the benefits of tourism to the countryside by simplifying entry requirement procedures and processes and allowing them more time to experience what the Philippines has to offer.

This will definitely help in achieving the DOT’s target of 10 million foreign visitors by 2016, Director Tiopes echoed the Secretary.

Secretary Jimenez believes that there is a need to address the perception abroad that it is difficult to enter the Philippines. With these visa reforms, the Philippines will be at par with the entry policies of neighbours in the region and, for some markets, more liberal.

Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia allow entry of nationals of most countries without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. Tourists entering Cambodia are issued visas upon arrival valid for one month, except for nationals of ASEAN countries who are allowed to enter visa-free.