​TAIWANESE visitor arrivals to the Philippines increased by 6.32 percent in 2025, according to Bureau of Immigration (BI) data. ​BI figures showed that arrivals from Taiwan reached 213,928 in 2025, up from 201,203 in 2024, underscoring steady recovery momentum. ​The Philippines ranked ninth among Taiwan’s outbound destinations during the year, reflecting both the challenges and opportunities in a highly competitive travel environment. ​“The 6.32-percent growth reflects the steady return of Taiwanese travelers to the Philippines after a highly competitive year across Asia,” said Chriselle May Yambao, tourism attache of the Philippine Department of Tourism in Taiwan. ​“It confirms that our market fundamentals remain strong and that demand for Philippine destinations continues to be resilient,” she added. ​Tourism officials attributed the growth partly to the continued visa-free entry policy for Taiwanese travelers, which reduced barriers and enhanced the country’s competitiveness in the short-haul leisure and incentive segments. ​Expanded air connectivity and additional charter and commercial flight frequencies throughout 2025 also improved travel flexibility and supported seasonal demand. ​The Philippines further strengthened its cruise tourism presence with new itineraries, including Star Cruises’ Star Navigator sailing via Kaohsiung, which introduced more Philippine ports to Taiwanese travelers. ​“Improved connectivity and easier travel access were the main pillars of this recovery,” Yambao said. ​“With more flights, more cruise options and visa-free entry, traveling to the Philippines became more convenient and more attractive for Taiwanese visitors,” she added.