Minister Dustin T.S. Yang, Deputy Representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, recently paid a visit to the headquarters of DAILY TRIBUNE.

In an exclusive interview, Yang offered insights into Taiwan’s vibrant relationship with the Philippines, focusing on shared values, mutual respect, and opportunities for deeper collaboration, especially in health, trade and people-to-people connections.

A seasoned diplomat and dedicated advocate for regional cooperation, Yang is optimistic about Taiwan’s path forward. “Our relations with the Philippines cover culture, tourism, economic, trade, agriculture, scientific (collaboration) and also humanitarian relief,” he said.

Epitome of healthcare

Taiwan’s healthcare system is a model that Yang believes should be recognized globally for its accessibility, efficiency and cost-effectiveness. “(Taiwan) has the best health system in the world,” Yang stated with pride.

Thanks to government-negotiated medicine prices, Taiwan’s national healthcare system covers the vast majority of medical expenses for its citizens.

“Our government can just negotiate with the medicine company to have a bargain price because the demand is so big,” he explained. “Most of the medicine expenditure is covered by the government… you know we only pay the minimal fee monthly.”

He gave a personal example: “Last year, I had to buy some medicine so I went to Mercury (Drugstore) to buy (and spent) almost P8,000, but if I went back to Taiwan it would cost me zero.” It’s a stark contrast that showcases Taiwan’s commitment to affordable care.

Even for visitors, the costs remain low. “(Foreigners) have to pay, but the expenditure is (at a) reasonable cost. Cheaper than the Philippines,” he noted. “If I catch a cold and I go to (a) clinic, the only payment I have to pay is when I make an appointment with the doctor — probably P150 only.”

As countries worldwide grapple with the challenges of affordable healthcare, Taiwan presents a compelling case. Yang encouraged more Filipinos to consider the island as a medical tourism destination.

“Personally, I agree. We need to promote more about the medical tourism of Taiwan… not only for Filipino friends but all tourists,” he said.

With the medical field being one of Taiwan’s strongest sectors, he envisions a future where healthcare becomes a cornerstone of Taiwan’s regional diplomacy.

Bonds beyond borders

Yang acknowledged that Taiwan continues to face external economic pressures, including those tied to international tariffs and currency fluctuations. He revealed how volatile conditions briefly rocked Taiwan’s financial sector.

“There’s a two-day or three (day) phenomenon… our currency rose sharply, almost 8 to 10 percent… scared almost everyone, even the United States,” he recounted. “If our currency rises too sharply, it means we lost… someone estimated just in one day, our insurance sector may suffer more than maybe over 100 million dollars. But actually, it has stabilized already.”

Despite these fluctuations, Taiwan remains focused on long-term economic stability and expanding ties with partners like the Philippines.

While details of Taiwan’s ongoing trade talks with other nations remain under wraps, Yang said there have been “primary discussions” — suggesting momentum is building.

One growing area of cooperation is labor. “The number of Filipino friends working in Taiwan is increasing,” Yang affirmed, highlighting the importance of protecting workers’ rights and ensuring fair treatment.

He added that while some payments and management fees are required from workers, these are often related to operations and are closely monitored.

“We make good relations with all the friends we can.”

Sector for collaboration

Rather than dwelling on regional tensions, Yang focused on pragmatic solutions and areas of collaboration — a stance that is both diplomatic and forward-looking.

Agriculture, though a smaller portion of Taiwan’s GDP — “less than 10 percent,” according to Yang — remains an important component of bilateral cooperation. Whether through scientific exchange, environmental resilience, or sustainable trade, Taiwan is eager to work with the Philippines in shared areas of strength.

Above all, Yang’s message is one of openness, respect and proactive diplomacy.

As both countries navigate a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable global landscape, these bridges, built on health, culture and mutual benefit, will sustain and strengthen Taiwan-Philippine relations.

And if you ever find yourself in Taiwan needing a doctor, don’t worry — chances are, you’ll be well taken care of.