Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Tuesday commenced the implementation of a one-year visa-free entry for holders of Taiwanese passports.

According to Philippines News Agency, Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced that the implementation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.'s directive to enhance Philippine tourism and foster diplomatic reciprocity between the two nations.

Under Presidential Directive No. PBBM-2025-1539, issued on April 3, 2025, Taiwanese nationals will be permitted visa-free entry into the Philippines for up to 14 days. This policy will be effective from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

The initiative reflects a reciprocal arrangement with Taiwan, which already grants visa-free access to Filipino travelers, and underscores a commitment to improving people-to-people exchanges and regional connectivity.

Viado confirmed that BI personnel at international ports have been instructed to implement the order following established immigration protocols. Measures have been instituted to ensure a smooth arrival process for Taiwanese visitors.

The BI chief expressed optimism that the policy would attract more Taiwanese tourists to Philippine destinations, thereby boosting local economies and supporting the administration's tourism-led growth strategy.

Viado reminded immigration personnel to maintain courtesy and professionalism while enforcing the 14-day non-extendible and non-convertible stay provision.

In 2024, BI processed 235,674 arrivals from Taiwan, highlighting the significance of this new policy.