The Philippines, Southeast Asia’s largest tourism economy in terms of GDP contribution, received 3.7 million international visitors between January and July, a 4.25% increase year-on-year, driven by relaxed visa policies.
The increase was fueled by a surge in arrivals from mainland China, India, and Taiwan, according to BusinessWorld Onlineciting a Department of Tourism source.
Arrivals from China rose 67% year-on-year, while those from India increased 34%.
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Foreign tourists walk along a beach in Boracay Island, the Philippines. Photo by AP |
The Philippines allowed Chinese nationals to enter without visas for stay of up to two weeks for tourism or business purposes from January this year.
It also granted visa-free entry for Indian nationals traveling for tourism or business since last year.
The Philippines received 5.6 million foreign visitors in 2025, almost the same as in 2024.
It eyes 6.7 million arrivals this year. If achieved, it would mark the country’s strongest performance since the Covid-19 pandemic.