Marcos supports PSAC-Tourism proposal for nomad visas

President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has backed the proposal to issue an executive order (EO) implementing nomad visas without tax incentives based on recommendations from the Private Sector Advisory Council for Tourism (PSAC-Tourism).

The PSAC-Tourism emphasized that immediate issuance of nomad visas will attract long-term foreign visitors, noting countries like Thailand and Malaysia are already benefiting.

Marcos directed the Office of the Executive Secretary to draft the EO and select a pilot country for the initiative, while also supporting industry-specific training programs to equip individuals with skills required for tourism-related jobs.

Lucio Tan III highlighted that Southeast Asia's lower cost of living compared to developed nations makes it attractive for digital nomads, and stressed the importance of TESDA certifications within the industry.

The council expressed confidence in these initiatives positioning the Philippines as a prime destination for tourists, enhancing the quality of its tourism workforce, and driving economic growth.