TAIWAN expressed its gratitude to Filipino workers’ diligence and dedication at the 103rd National Day of the Republic of China (Taiwan) celebration, and invited more Filipino tourists to come to the country.
Taiwan Representative to the Philippines Dr. Gary Song-Huann Lin expressed his commitment for a harmonious bilateral relation between the Philippines and Taiwan, which he hoped would bring about more Filipinos who would choose Taiwan as their main destination for travel.
“I am sure that the Filipinos will enjoy Taiwan’s well-built and clean transportation networks, unique fusion of cultures, including the world-class Taipei National Palace museum, exciting city life, diverse entertainment choices and well-developed hospitality industry. Most of all, it is less than a two-hour plane ride from Manila, and Taiwan is one of the safest places in the world. Taiwanese people are friendly and peace-loving. Young ladies can walk [around safely during] midnight,” he said.
Currently, the Philippines is the ninth-largest visitor to Taiwan. Taiwan is also the ninth-largest tourist source for the Philippines this year. Estimates show that around 200,000 Taiwanese people visit the Philippines annually.
Lin also called on Philippine authorities to grant visa exemptions to ROC nationals in order to boost tourism and business. Taiwan, according to Lin, has always been supportive of linkages and healthy bilateral relationships, stressing, “It is time for the Philippines and Taiwan to embrace each other.”
The Philippines, on the other hand, has more than 100,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Taiwan as of end-September. Filipino workers, as mentioned by Second District Rep. Al Francis Bichara of Albay, are declared as Taiwan’s third-largest foreign work force. In addition, Taiwan is thankful to OFWs and migrants, assuring that they also enjoy the benefits of ROC nationals.
“They have made great contribution to Taiwan’s economic development and social stability. We thank them for their hard work and dedication,” Lin said.
Every month OFW remittances amount to around P1 billion. Manila Economic and Cultural Office Chairman Amadeo Perez Jr. said this was due to “our vibrant economic ties which we have with Taiwan.”
Lin concluded that since Taiwan and the Philippines share the same values, he is positive that this multifaceted cooperation will improve even more in the years to come.
“As the representative of the ROC [Taiwan] to the Philippines, I perceive myself as a bridge-builder, a peacemaker and a champion for our common cause. I firmly believe that, with our joint efforts, we should be able to strengthen our bilateral relations, and work hand in hand to realize our dream and vision—like your national hero Jose Rizal.”