DOJ: Cruise visa waiver will be key factor in boosting tourism

PNA FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) is optimistic that the simplified visa processing for cruise visitors crafted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI) will boost tourism in the country.

In a statement Friday, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said the Cruise Visa Waiver program “will definitely be a key factor in boosting the country’s tourism economy.”

The Cruise Visa Waiver Program seeks to provide cruise ship tourists an accessible, secure and efficient entry process to the Philippines, and was implemented by virtue of Immigration Memorandum Circular No. 2024-001 which was approved by Remulla on March 14, 2024.

In collaboration with the BI and the Department of Tourism (DOT), the program was successfully launched at the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Authority (TIEZA) in Pasay City last July 16.

“The justice system is never a hindrance for progress and should always be made accessible, and at times flexible, to promote economic growth. There is no doubt that this project will lead to greater heights in the future, not just making the Philippines a top cruise destination but making our country the Top Tourist Destination in the world,” Remulla said.

“We are inviting our friends across the globe to come visit the Philippines and see for themselves the wonders of our nature, people and culture then, tell the whole world about it.”