The Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (FFCCCII) has extolled the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) decision to grant Chinese nationals a 14-day visa exemption to the Philippines, saying the decisive and progressive reform strategically positions the Philippines alongside major ASEAN neighbors in the vital competition for the world’s largest and most dynamic tourist market.

Since last year, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco has been urging the DFA to heed the agency’s request to grant Chinese tourists visa-free entry into the country.

Non-extendable and non-convertible

According to the DFA, Chinese citizens traveling for tourism or business will benefit from the new privilege, but they can only stay for a maximum of 14 days, non-extendable and non-convertible to other visa categories.

The program took effect on 16 January.

Entry is restricted to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Metro Manila and Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

Chinese outbound travel is on track to surpass the pre-pandemic peak of 155 million journeys and is projected to exceed 200 million by 2028, representing a colossal wave of potential affluent visitors — the world’s biggest tourist source market — whose consumption patterns are actively reshaping global tourism.

“The country’s new visa-free access is a critical step to ensure that our beautiful archipelago becomes the chosen destination for Chinese tourists. We at the FFCCCII believe that tourism is the quintessential low-hanging fruit of the Philippine economy,” said FFCCCII president, Victor Lim.

Proven world-class assets

“We are blessed not with potential, but with proven, world-class assets: the legendary Filipino hospitality and the breathtaking, natural beauty of our tropical archipelago. This policy directs a powerful economic engine toward the heart of our nation,” he stressed.

The business group leader said allowing Chinese nationals 14-day Visa-free entry to the country is a good time, since today’s Chinese traveler is increasingly affluent, tech-savvy, and seeks meaningful experiences.

Lim said the Chinese market is among the world’s highest-spending tourists, with a strong willingness to pay for family travel, in-depth cultural exploration, shopping, island leisure, and premium culinary experiences.

Transformative impact on MSMEs

“Imagine the transformative impact on our Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises nationwide and rural countryside development when this wave of visitors flows beyond Manila and Cebu. This is not just about tourists; it is about creating sustainable livelihoods, empowering local entrepreneurs, and fostering truly inclusive Philippine economic growth that reaches every corner of our islands,” Lim said.

He said his organization is calling “upon every sector — aviation, hospitality, retail, security, culture, and local government sectors — to unite in enhancing tourist visitor experience, upholding the highest standards of safety and service, and protecting the natural wonders that make us unique.”