Gov officials allowed to travel to Taiwan for economic purposes

Malacañang has allowed government officials to travel to Taiwan for economic and trade purposes under strict protocols.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Memorandum Circular No. 82 on April 19, permitting visits to promote trade, investment, and cooperation in areas like tourism, science, and education.

Officials can use ordinary passports without official titles during these trips and must coordinate with the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) and submit post-activity reports.

The circular also permits Philippine agencies to receive delegations from Taiwan for economic purposes, provided they notify MECO at least five days prior and submit a report within 15 days after the visit.

No agreements can be signed with Taiwanese entities without DFA clearance.

These guidelines take effect immediately but may be subject to further directives by the Office of the President and DFA.