Government sees influx of tourists from Taiwan

MANILA, Philippines - The government is expecting an influx of tourists from Taiwan this year as Taiwanese carrier Mandarin Airlines is set to offer direct charter flights from Taichung to Kalibo starting on Oct. 16.

Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) managing director and resident representative Antonio I. Basilio said the new flights will benefit the Philippine travel and tourism industry as charter services are proving to be a driver for tourism growth.

“These charter services are expected to bring in thousands of Taiwanese visitors to Boracay, one of the Philippines’ leading destinations. It’s a win-win for the community and the industry,” said Basilio.

Basilio said MECO in Taiwan is targeting four consumer segments for its tourism offerings: Double income with no kids’ households, honeymooners, diving associations, and group tours.

“Although the honeymooners market may not be as big as the other market segments, it remains a potentially lucrative business for our industry suppliers and Taiwan’s destination management companies. This is a low-volume but high-yield market for us,” said Basilio.

Basilio said leisure seekers from Taichung in central Taiwan, who want to experience a holiday of sun, fun, beach and night life, can easily travel to Boracay via Aklan by booking seats in Mandarin Airlines’ new charter services to Kalibo.

“The Philippines offers a thousand and one holiday experiences to visitors. We have pristine beaches, affordable accommodations, great restaurants, plenty of adventure sports, a fascinating culture and above all, a warm and caring people who will instantly make visitors feel welcome,” said Basilio.

Boracay Island has been attracting travelers from across the globe. The island’s 4-km. White Beach has been described by many as the ‘finest beach in the world.’ The water surrounding the island is shallow and the sand is finer and brighter than most beaches in the archipelago.

The country’s other top beach destinations include Pagudpud in northern Philippines, Mactan Island in Cebu, Panglao in Central Visayas, enchanting Camiguin Island off the north-west coast of Mindanao, and the Pearl Farm in Davao.

For his part, MECO Tourism Center Representative Rene Reyes said that Taiwan’s ‘double income no kids’ households or DINKS is another sub-segment that is driving the travel market.

Reyes said Taiwan’s vibrant dive travel consumer market is another priority segment for the Philippines.