The Philippine government announced that, starting this Friday, it will officially implement a visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens, allowing those entering for tourism or business purposes to stay for up to 14 days, with no extension permitted.
On Thursday (January 15), the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs issued a statement pointing out that the visa-free measure will take effect on Friday (16th), but it only applies to Chinese citizens entering through Manila Ninoy Aquino International Airport and Cebu International Airport.
The statement said that this policy is in line with the President's efforts to promote China's trade, investment and tourism development with the Philippines, and also helps to strengthen cultural exchanges between the two countries.
The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs emphasized that while facilitating the entry of legitimate travelers, authorities will continue to scrutinize travelers with adverse records to ensure national security and public order.
According to regulations, Chinese citizens must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay upon entry, and present confirmed hotel reservation details as well as a return or onward ticket to a third country.
This visa-free policy is valid for one year, and the Philippine government will review it before it expires to decide whether to extend the measure.