Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan proposed extending visa-free entry arrangements for Chinese nationals to top Philippine destinations Boracay and Bohol during a three-day visit to the island for the “Love Boracay 2026” event.
The ambassador met with local officials, legislators, hoteliers, travel agents and police officers from April 23 to 25 to discuss strengthening tourism cooperation.
Beyond visa reforms, Jing addressed the resumption of direct charter flights and the enhancement of consular protection services to ensure the safety of visiting tourists.
The visit focused on joint measures to support the recovery and long-term sustainable growth of the local tourism sector. Jing said that people-to-people exchanges serve as a foundation for mutual understanding between the two nations.
“When visitors share their experiences with family, friends and on social media, that will encourage and attract more tourists to visit each other,” Jing said.
The diplomat noted that increased travel builds organic connections, as personal stories shared online and in person often drive future tourism trends.
Discussions also touched on the economic impact of these proposals, as Chinese tourism historically accounts for a significant portion of local revenue. While specific financial targets were not disclosed, local businesses expressed optimism that increased arrivals could inject millions of P into the regional economy.
Tourism officials welcomed the talks on flight resumptions, noting that direct access remains a primary hurdle for international travelers.
The proposed security enhancements and consular support are intended to provide a stable environment for the projected influx of visitors through 2026 and beyond.
Since the start of the year, Chinese arrival numbers have increased by 15 percent, signaling a steady return to pre-pandemic travel patterns.
