The Philippines relaxes visa norms for visitors

Promoting the idea that, “It is more fun in the Philippines” the government has announced that tourists from 166 countries can now avail the expanded 30-day free visa upon arrival and six months for retirees.

Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez said this in a speech before the General Membership Meeting of the Makati Business Club that the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Bureau of Immigration have issued circular to extend the free visa upon arrival to 166 countries, from 21 days to 30 days. Retirees to enjoy six month free visa upon arrival.

“This is to show that the Philippines is more fun no matter what age you are,” Jimenez added. Jimenez also reported that the National Tourism Plan has just been finalised and this should be soon ready for President Aquino’s approval. The National Tourism Plan, which identifies all tourism programmes until 2016, includes 21 clusters for development around the country placed under a digital catalog. The program also identifies 9 tourism product categories. These are nature; culture; sand and beach; cruise; meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions; health and wellness; marine, entertainment; and education.