TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL — Chinese Ambassador Jing Quan has confirmed ongoing discussions with Philippine officials to extend visa‑free travel arrangements to Bohol, a move that could significantly boost the province's tourism economy. Speaking at the Awards for Promoting Philippines‑China Understanding in Manila on June 3, 2026, Jing said greater people‑to‑people exchanges could help ease misunderstandings between the two nations. His proposal specifically names Bohol as a priority destination for expanded visa access.
The ambassador disclosed that he recently discussed the possibility with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Tourism. "So recently, I talked to the DFA and the Department of Tourism. And try to extend the visa‑free policy to those two cities, and maybe some other cities," Jing said. The envoy emphasized that visa‑free access is essential to bringing direct flights and charter services to the province. "And then I can bring more direct flights to Boracay, Bohol, and other places," he added.
A 63 Percent Surge Creates Momentum
The push comes as Chinese tourist arrivals to the Philippines have surged 63 percent since the implementation of visa‑free entry for Chinese tour groups earlier this year. Jing noted that around 430,000 Chinese tourists visited Boracay in 2019 before the pandemic, a figure that plummeted to just 17,000 in 2025. Recovery is underway, with 16,000 arrivals recorded in the first quarter of 2026 alone.
Bohol has been actively courting the Chinese market. Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado recently submitted a formal request to include Bohol‑Panglao International Airport among authorized entry points under the country's 14‑day visa‑free arrangement. The ambassador's backing aligns with the province's strategy to diversify its international visitor base. For Bohol's tourism stakeholders, visa‑free access would remove a significant barrier that has limited the return of high‑spending Chinese travelers.
Direct Flights and Digital Diplomacy
Jing highlighted expanded air connectivity between the two countries, citing newly opened direct routes and plans for additional flights. The ambassador also noted the growing popularity of Bohol on Chinese social media platforms, where videos of local attractions have gone viral. He recently invited Filipino content creators to China, signaling a mutual commitment to cultural exchange.
For Bohol, the ambassador's advocacy represents a powerful endorsement. The province's tourism sector, which welcomed approximately 1.4 million visitors in 2025 with foreign arrivals posting a 14 percent increase, stands to benefit directly from eased travel restrictions. As discussions continue, the prospect of visa‑free travel and direct charter flights promises to accelerate Bohol's post‑pandemic tourism recovery and strengthen its position as a premier Philippine destination.
