Chinese visa center officially opens in Manila

Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Huang Xilian led Friday the official launch of the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Manila.

Huang acknowledged the increasing interest of Filipinos in visiting China, leading to a growing demand for Chinese visas. He emphasized the importance of people-to-people exchanges in building strong relations between the two countries.

"The exchanges of personnel are a crucial basis for enhancing mutual understanding, deepening cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade, and culture, and sharing development opportunities between China and the Philippines," he said.

To address the challenges posed by personnel shortages, the Chinese Embassy has made efforts to enhance visa processing capacity and service quality. With the support of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other relevant parties, the decision to establish the Chinese Visa Application Service Center was made.

The center is equipped with spacious reception halls, first-class facilities, and a professional management team to enhance the efficiency and experience of visa processing for applicants.

Huang said the establishment of visa centers in countries with high visa application demand is an international practice. Currently, China has set up 100 overseas visa application centers in 52 countries worldwide. The CYTS Corporation was chosen to operate the center locally, adhering to Philippine laws.

While the Visa Center will handle visa applications and related services, the final decision on visa approval will remain with the Chinese Embassy. Stringent data security and privacy protection measures are in place to ensure the safety of applicants' information, with comprehensive supervision provided by the Embassy.

Huang expressed hope for increased people-to-people exchanges between China and the Philippines. He encouraged efforts to enhance mutual understanding, deepen cooperation in various fields, and promote friendly cooperation.

As the Chinese Visa Application Service Center opens, Huang extended his best wishes for its successful operation and wished everyone a prosperous Year of the Dragon.

On the Philippine side, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Jesus Domingo said the country is continually seeking ways to develop the E-Visa Process for Chinese nationals visiting the Philippines.

"We are gradually fulfilling our vision of bridging our countries together," said Domingo.

Special envoy Benito Techico, representing the President of the Philippines in trade, investments, and tourism with the People's Republic of China, welcomed the opening of the new visa center in Manila.

He said: "This center will streamline the process, allowing Filipinos to explore the beauty of China."—AOL, GMA Integrated News