The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) is urgently backing the idea of a unified ASEAN visa, which it believes could significantly enhance visitor numbers and reinforce ASEAN’s global tourism appeal.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted that this single visa could rival the European Schengen Visa, offering travelers an easier way to explore the enchanting region of Southeast Asia. The concept is beginning to gain traction from various ASEAN nations which are supporting the initiative.

Frasco stated in a recent comment, “The overarching tagline for ASEAN tourism is ‘a destination for every dream,’ and a cohesive visa framework would facilitate fulfilling the travel aspirations of countless global adventurers.”

Speaking further, she expressed hope that discussions regarding the unification would intensify leading up to the ASEAN summit that the Philippines is set to host next year. She emphasized that while competition exists among member states, collaborative efforts are likely to yield greater benefits for all involved, asserting:

“Competition is always healthy, but collaboration is even healthier, as it allows ASEAN to pool resources and work toward a unified force for good.”