Taiwan may revoke visa-free entry for Filipinos over travel ban

Taiwan is considering revoking visa-free entry for Filipinos as a response to the Philippines' travel ban on Taiwanese citizens.

The Philippines' Department of Health imposed the ban due to coronavirus fears, including Taiwan alongside China, Hong Kong, and Macao.

Taiwan's foreign ministry spokesperson stated that a response is prepared if the ban continues, deeming the decision 'one-sided and wrong'.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo affirmed that Malacañang would respect Taiwan's decision to revoke the visa-free privilege, stating each country has the right to act in its own interest.

Filipino travelers stranded in Taiwan due to the travel ban will not be allowed to extend their 14-day visa-free stay and are advised to return to the Philippines.

The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) stated that stranded Filipinos should contact them if they face difficulties returning home.

Malacañang clarified that Taiwan's inclusion in the ban was based on health concerns, not political reasons.

MECO Chairman Lito Banayo had previously warned that the Taiwanese government was contemplating retaliatory measures, offended by their inclusion in the ban, possibly due to the One China Policy.