The Philippines is stepping up its efforts to attract long-stay travelers and digital nomads, offering not only affordable living but also immersive cultural experiences and world-renowned hospitality.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco represented the country at the 2025 SKIFT Asia Forum held on May 15 in Bangkok, Thailand, where she highlighted the Philippines’ competitive edge in the region. Speaking alongside global travel leaders, Secretary Frasco emphasized the country’s English-speaking population, ease of travel, and growing infrastructure tailored for remote workers.
In April 2025, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order 86, establishing the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV)—a landmark move aimed at encouraging remote professionals to live and work in the Philippines for extended periods.
“Remote workers can thrive in paradise,” said Secretary Frasco. “The Philippines offers more than just affordability. It provides high-value experiences—from cultural immersion to the warmth of our people and the convenience of an English-speaking environment. With our archipelago of scenic islands, digital nomads can explore while staying connected and productive.”
To support this initiative, the Department of Tourism is collaborating closely with regional and local government units to strengthen safety, enhance infrastructure, and promote cultural experiences through curated tourism circuits.
Secretary Frasco also pointed to long-term residency options through programs like the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa, administered by the Philippine Retirement Authority. This offers an extended stay option for those who wish to remain beyond the one-year limit under the DNV.
“We’re ensuring that infrastructure is in place to support extended visits, not just short-term stays,” Frasco explained. “Our commitment is to create an environment that’s both enriching for travelers and beneficial to local communities.”
Frasco further emphasized the country’s vision to attract responsible tourists—those who value sustainable travel and contribute positively through higher tourism spending and repeat visits. Highlighting destinations such as Palawan (recently named the World’s Best Island), Boracay, and Siargao, she reinforced the country’s appeal to those seeking both adventure and cultural depth.
Key to this strategy is enhancing digital connectivity. The Marcos administration, in coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology, is working to improve Wi-Fi infrastructure in over 90 tourist destinations nationwide.
The SKIFT Asia Forum is an annual gathering of top industry leaders and innovators from across the travel and tourism sectors. This year’s lineup featured notable names such as Laura Houldsworth (Booking.com), Dave Stephenson (Airbnb), Nadia Omer (AirAsia MOVE), Boon Sian Chai (Trip.com), and others, offering a platform to explore trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of travel in Asia and beyond.
