Taiwan has expressed its intent to enhance economic exchanges with the Philippines. Their government has clarified relevant travel policies for Filipino officials visiting Taiwan for trade purposes.
On April 22, a Taiwanese Minister of Foreign Affairs described this as a pragmatic decision by the Philippine government, facilitating deeper cooperation.

Currently, Taiwan ranks as the Philippines’ eighth largest export market, ninth largest trading partner, and tenth largest source of imports. Despite lacking formal diplomatic relations, both countries engage through unofficial channels such as the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.

Relevant Guidelines

Philippine Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular (MC) 82 on April 15, reinforcing travel guidelines that were initially imposed under Executive Order 313 in 1989. This MC aims to maximize opportunities for developing the Philippines’ priority investment areas.

According to MC 82, government officials traveling to Taiwan for economic, trade, and investment purposes must use ordinary passports and refrain from using their official titles. They are also required to inform and coordinate with MECO and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) prior to their visit.

Additionally, officials may host Taiwanese delegations for similar purposes with prior notification to MECO. However, no agreements or memoranda can be signed with Taiwanese organizations or agencies without clearance from the DFA. Travel restrictions will continue to apply to key political figures such as the President and the Secretary of Foreign Affairs.