Makati city: The Philippines will support efforts to establish a unified visa system among ASEAN member countries, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced Thursday ahead of the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN summit and related meetings in 2026. Frasco emphasized the nation’s commitment to the initiative during a media briefing in Makati City, noting the potential benefits of such a system for the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco stated, “As early as the very first ASEAN meeting that I attended as Tourism Secretary, I expressed the Philippines’ desire to benefit from a unified ASEAN visa.” She highlighted that while the desire for an ASEAN visa is strong, it is ultimately contingent upon agreements among member nations. Frasco assured that the Philippines maintains its stance on pursuing this initiative without compromising national security.

Frasco previously mentioned in May that other Southeast Asian countries have also shown interest in a unified visa system. This concept draws inspiration from existing visa arrangements like the European Schengen visa and the Gulf Cooperation Council’s joint visa. She expressed optimism that the topic would gain further attention as the Philippines takes on the ASEAN chairmanship in 2026.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN meetings next year. Frasco noted that the upcoming ASEAN events will significantly boost tourism in the country. “The Philippines hosting of the ASEAN in 2026 will be a very big boost to tourism for the country, and on the side of the Department of Tourism, we are very excited that the very first ASEAN meetings will be about tourism, with the ASEAN Tourism Forum slated to be held at the end of January 2026,” she added.