CEBU, Philippines — Chinese Consul General Zhang Zhen cited some concerns that contributed to the decline of Chinese tourist arrivals in the Philippines in recent year as compared to the pre-pandemic time. She said these concerns need to be addressed by the Philippine Government.
Zhang said China used to be a top market in tourism in the Philippines, unfortunately, these numbers have declined.
“I noticed that in the pre-pandemic, Chinese tourists actually were the top market, but it is a pity that now it seems that not so many Chinese tourists are coming… That's really, really a pity,” lamented the Chinese Consul General in an interview with some reporters during its New Year reception and briefer at the Waterfront Cebu City Hotel.
Zhang cited several issues that she believed have affected the current downtrend of the arrivals of Chinese tourists in the country.
“Personally, there are some elements behind it. According to my personal observation, first of all, the tensions between the two sides, especially on the maritime issues. That kind of noises and disputes make the Chinese tourists and the Chinese investors have hesitation. They are wondering whether it is still a friendly and open place for them to be here,” Zhang said.
Another thing is securing visa in the Philippines is not easy as compared to other Asian countries.
“Chinese applying for Philippine visa, it’s not easy. It's very troublesome…Meanwhile, many Asian member countries they give visa free policy for Chinese. So Chinese tourists, they have many options. If it is not easy to apply for such a visa, then they just turn to another country,” Zhang said.
On the other hand, the Chinese Embassy in the Philippines and the Consulate Office of China here has very good service, she said.
“We provide very good services for the local Filipino applicants. Maximum four working days and the fee is also very low and very convenient. And the most important thing, we make no restrictions on how many applicants can submit the application. There's no restrictions. So anyone is welcome to visit China,” Zhang added.
Zhang disagreed that the difficulties in getting visas in the Philippines have something to do with the issue on POGO as it does not only involve Chinese nationals but even those from other countries.
“I don't think so. POGO not only concerned to some specific nation. There are so many countries involved,” Zhang said, adding that China is supportive of the Philippine Government’s decision to ban POGO or Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators.
“China’s position of POGO is always consistent and clear cut. We crack down and we oppose to any forms of gambling, including POGO, and we also welcome and support the Philippines decision to ban POGO,” she said.
Now, Zhang said it’s up to the Philippine Government to work on easing the visa application for Chinese nationals.
A review with their commitments in China and the Philippines’ diplomatic ties is also expected to be done when the two countries commemorates its 50th Friendship Day on June 9, 2025.
Meanwhile, Zhang said another direct flights from China to Cebu are being eyed to resume soon after the Eastern Airlines' resumption of flights last year.
Zhang said she loves Cebu and she is looking forward to establishing better ties here and a better future for the Cebuanos.
“In Cebu, of course, I think the Cebuanos are so kind and open minded. You deserve a better life, a better future, so I really wish, Cebu City to have a bright future. So this year, I hope that Cebu City can move forward with more success, more development so that the general public, the local people can benefit more. — /JG (FREEMAN)