Extension of visa-free entry to Taiwan? MECO says talks ongoing

The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO), which functions as the Philippines' de facto embassy in Taipei, expressed optimism Saturday that the visa-free entry program for Filipino travelers going to Taiwan will be further extended.

At a news forum, MECO Chairperson and Resident Representative Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil said extending the visa-free entry scheme being enjoyed by Filipinos was subject to discussion.

"It's continuing… It's still too early, but our relationship [with Taiwan] is good, so hopefully it will be extended," Garafil said in a mix of Filipino and English.

Taiwan's Bureau of Consular Affairs (BOCA) has extended until July 31, 2025 its 14-day visa-free policy for Filipino travelers.

The visa-free program for Filipinos resumed on Sept. 29, 2022. It was set to expire in July 31, 2023, but was previously extended until July 31, 2024.

Garafil said that with Taiwan's economy is expanding, it has been opening its borders not only for workers but also for students.

"They are inviting students, college students, senior high school students to study various courses in Taiwan because that is what they need for their industries," she said.

"So in the next few months… we will be spearheading some projects to help students study for free in Taiwan," she added.

According to the MECO chair, there are about 200,000 Filipinos in Taiwan, 170,000 of which are workers in the Asian neighbor's semiconductor, agriculture, and factory industries. — VDV, GMA Integrated News