Taiwanese visitor arrivals to the Philippines rose 6.32 percent to 213,928 in 2025 from 201,203 in 2024, supported by stronger air links, a visa-free policy and expanding cruise tourism despite intense regional competition.
Data from the Bureau of Immigration (BI) showed the increase positioned Taiwan as one of the country’s key source markets in Northeast Asia. Taiwan ranked eighth among the Philippines’ top source markets based on nationality arrivals, according to immigration figures.
The rise in arrivals occurred even as Taiwan’s total outbound travel market grew 12.43 percent in 2025, with Japan, Greater China, South Korea, Vietnam and Thailand drawing a substantial share of travelers.
The Philippines ranked ninth among Taiwan’s outbound destinations, based on figures from the Taiwan Ministry of Transportation and Communications.
Tourism officials cited cruise tourism as a growing contributor to the rebound. New itineraries, including sailings of Star Cruises Star Navigator via Kaohsiung, added Philippine ports to short-haul cruise routes and introduced destinations beyond traditional gateways.
The additional capacity complemented expanded commercial and charter flights, giving Taiwanese travelers more entry options and supporting stronger arrival numbers in the latter half of the year.
“The 6.32 percent growth reflects the steady return of Taiwanese travelers to the Philippines after a highly competitive year across Asia,” tourism tttache to Taiwan Chriselle May Yambao said.
While Taiwan’s outbound figures to the Philippines are higher than recorded arrivals due to standard statistical differences, both datasets indicate sustained travel demand between the two markets.
Tourism officials expect the momentum to extend into 2026, backed by continued connectivity and destination promotions under the “Love the Philippines” campaign.
