The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has publicly supported the establishment of a common Asean visa. This program seeks to promote Southeast Asia as one of the world’s top travel destinations. This initiative, inspired by the European Schengen visa and the Gulf Cooperation Council’s joint visa, seeks to simplify travel across the region for tourists and boost overall tourism numbers.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in tourism, despite existing competition among Asean member states. She noted that the unified visa proposal is continuing to build momentum. It will symbolize a collective aspiration to deliver a seamless travel experience across Southeast Asia.
Frasco pointed to the Philippines’ partnership with Thailand as a regional success story and collaboration. The “Two Countries, One Destination” campaign is a testament to how both countries can collaborate to bring more visitors to both nations. This joint partnership is a strong demonstration of the benefits that a proposed Asean visa system could bring.
“Competition is always very healthy, but collaboration is healthier in a sense that Asean coming together to work as a force for good for the world would really benefit all of our countries,” – Christina Garcia Frasco
The common Asean visa helps sell the region as one, more thrilling tourism hotspot. This project harmoniously complements Asean’s new tagline, “A place of myriad dreams.” Frasco believes that this effort will enhance the appeal of the region’s diverse cultural and culinary offerings to international tourists.
Frasco emphasized that there is “like interest” from other Southeast Asian countries for the integrated visa scheme. She’s encouraged that the conversation is moving in this direction. As the Philippines prepares to host Asean events in 2026, there are electric undercurrents to the discussion.
“To be able to unify the Asean as a destination… is one that is aspirational for us in the Philippines,” – Christina Garcia Frasco
DOT Secretary Christina Frasco the unified Asean visa. The initiative has two goals — increasing tourism traffic to member nations and increasing connectivity and relations between member countries. As Frasco said in her welcome, “You come to the Philippines as a visitor, but you leave as family.” As a phrase, it embodies the Philippines’ approach to hospitality, which seeks to ensure that each guest feels like they belong there.
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