MANILA — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) confirmed that the country’s visa policy for Chinese nationals has not been altered, stressing that existing rules and requirements continue to apply.

In a statement, DFA officials explained that Chinese citizens traveling to the Philippines for tourism are still required to secure an electronic visa (eVisa) prior to entry. The system, which was relaunched in late 2025, allows single-entry visits of up to 14 days, provided travelers arrive through designated ports such as Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila or Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu.

“The visa policy for Chinese nationals remains the same. There are no new restrictions or changes in the application process,” the DFA said, noting that applications must be filed through Philippine embassies, consulates, or the official eVisa portal.

The DFA emphasized that the Bureau of Immigration retains authority at the port of entry to determine admissibility. “An eVisa is not a guarantee of automatic admission. Immigration authorities will still assess compliance with Philippine laws and regulations,” the agency reminded.

The clarification comes amid heightened public interest in visa rules following reports of increased monitoring of foreign nationals. Officials reiterated that the Philippines continues to welcome legitimate tourists and business travelers, while maintaining safeguards against overstaying and illegal activities.

Chinese nationals remain one of the largest groups of visitors to the Philippines, particularly in destinations such as Manila, Cebu, and Boracay. Tourism authorities are banking on the resumption of eVisa services to help boost arrivals in 2026, after visitor numbers fell below pre-pandemic levels in 2025.

For now, the DFA assured that the visa framework for Chinese nationals is stable, and any future adjustments will be publicly announced through official channels.

Got it. Here are angles first, as you requested, but you already chose Tourism Versus Security Tension and added your opinion about invasion fears. I will craft the editorial now with that direction and keep it to exactly 200 words.

Visa Policy Sits Between Tourism and Security

The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the Philippines keeps the same visa policy for Chinese nationals. No changes were made. Chinese tourists still need an electronic visa before entry. The Bureau of Immigration still holds full authority at airports and seaports.

Those are the facts.

Still, the conversation cannot end with a simple clarification. The Philippines wants Chinese visitors. Tourism revenue matters. Airlines and hotels count on arrivals from China to help economic recovery. Legitimate business travelers remain welcome.

Yet many Filipinos feel uneasy.

Heightened public interest in visa rules shows a persistent tension. Internet users see stories about illegal workers, overstaying tourists, and suspicious activities. Communities worry that openness may invite risks and that risks may invite more problems.

Good governance demands balance.

Visa systems must stay efficient and strict at the same time. Immigration screening must remain alert, even when applications remain stable. Law enforcement partnerships must grow stronger, especially with organized networks exploiting weak points.

A stable framework should inspire confidence, not complacency. Confidence, not complacency.

The DFA did its part by speaking clearly. The public must do its part by staying watchful. Government agencies must do their part by staying cautious.

If visa openness continues in 2026, will national vigilance continue with it? Are Filipinos protected enough, or are borders becoming too comfortable?