Manila, the vibrant capital of the Philippines, became the epicenter of Taiwanese tourism from August 30 to 31, 2025, when the “Panahon sa Taiwan Travel Fair 2025” was held at Robinsons Galleria Ortigas. Organized by the Taiwan Tourism Administration, the event attracted an overwhelming number of visitors from all over the Philippines, establishing Taiwan as a premier travel destination. The two-day event featured exciting cultural exhibitions, interactive activities, and promotions aimed at enticing Filipino travelers to explore the stunning island nation.

Key Highlights of the Taiwan Travel Fair:

• Taiwan Night Market Games: Traditional activities such as bottle fishing and ring toss
• Promotional Participation: Represented by leading travel agencies and airlines including China Airlines, EVA Air, and Amkor Travel and Tours Inc.
• Engaging Cultural Displays: A recreated atmosphere of Taiwan’s renowned night markets
• Lucky Lantern DIY Workshop: An interactive experience allowing visitors to create their own souvenirs
• Celebrity Endorsement: Travel blogger Xzar Lim and actress Bea Binene shared their travel experiences in Taiwan
• Exclusive Giveaways: Lucky participants won roundtrip tickets between Manila and Taipei

The fair was more than just an exhibition – it was a celebration of Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage and a chance for Filipino travelers to discover the unique experiences Taiwan has to offer. Through engaging and hands-on activities, visitors were able to immerse themselves in the essence of Taiwan’s renowned night market culture, famous for its variety of food, shopping, and entertainment.

Taiwan’s Allure to Filipino Tourists

With over 310,000 Filipino visitors in the first half of 2025 alone, Taiwan is fast becoming one of the top destinations for travelers from Southeast Asia. Taiwan’s visa-free entry policy and rich promotional campaigns have made it easier than ever for Filipinos to experience all that the island has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to scenic landscapes, Taiwan provides a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Its four distinct seasons, convenient transportation, and world-class hospitality make it a year-round travel destination.

One of the main draws for Filipino tourists is Taiwan’s affordability and the wide range of cultural attractions it offers. Taiwan’s tourism highlights include bustling night markets, breathtaking natural wonders like Taroko Gorge, and vibrant cities such as Taipei and Kaohsiung. Furthermore, Taiwan’s position as a culinary haven continues to entice food lovers, with an ever-growing reputation for high-quality restaurants and street food.

A Focus on Experiential Travel

The Panahon sa Taiwan Travel Fair 2025 was not just about showcasing Taiwan as a destination; it was also an opportunity for visitors to experience Taiwan’s distinctive charm firsthand. The fair replicated the bustling atmosphere of Taiwan’s night markets, giving visitors a taste of what they could expect when traveling to the island. Families and young travelers flocked to the interactive stations, where they could participate in traditional Taiwan-themed games and create their own Lucky Lanterns as souvenirs.

For many, the highlight was the chance to win a roundtrip ticket to Taiwan, instantly turning dreams into reality. These giveaways generated excitement among attendees, encouraging them to start planning their own Taiwanese adventures. Taiwan’s emphasis on experiential travel is becoming a key reason for its increasing popularity among Filipino tourists, as they seek not just sightseeing, but hands-on experiences that connect them to the heart of the destination.

Engaging the Filipino Market

The fair also featured a strong digital presence, leveraging popular social media influencers and travel bloggers to spread the message of Taiwan’s unique offerings. Xzar Lim, a well-known travel blogger, and Bea Binene, a celebrated Filipino actress, shared their personal travel experiences in Taiwan, further encouraging their followers to explore the destination. This approach not only appealed to the younger generation but also highlighted Taiwan’s broad appeal across various age groups.

The Taiwan Tourism Information Center in Manila played a crucial role in promoting this event, working closely with travel agencies and airlines to ensure a seamless experience for Filipino travelers. By partnering with major players in the tourism industry, Taiwan continues to expand its reach in the Philippines, one of its most important markets in Southeast Asia.

Taiwan’s Tourism Growth in the Philippines

Taiwan’s popularity among Filipino travelers has surged in recent years, thanks in part to the Taiwan government’s travel-friendly policies. The visa-free policy for Filipinos, which allows for easy and hassle-free travel, has led to a steady increase in the number of visitors. Additionally, Taiwan’s proximity to the Philippines makes it an attractive destination for short getaways, particularly for those seeking to experience something different within a relatively short travel time.

Taiwan’s tourism strategies are aimed at making travel to the island as easy and enjoyable as possible for Filipino tourists. With its efficient transportation system, world-class accommodations, and an ever-growing list of activities and attractions, Taiwan offers a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and adventure.

Looking Ahead: More Filipino Travelers to Taiwan

As the fair concluded with great success, the Taiwan Tourism Information Center expressed its gratitude to the attendees and partners, with plans to continue encouraging even more Filipino travelers to visit Taiwan. Looking ahead, Taiwan is committed to strengthening its tourism partnerships in the Philippines and providing a diverse array of tourism products that cater to the evolving needs of Filipino tourists.

This year’s event was just the beginning of an exciting journey for Taiwan and the Philippines. With Taiwan’s growing appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travel, it’s clear that the island will continue to play a pivotal role in the tourism landscape of Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

The Panahon sa Taiwan Travel Fair 2025 in Manila marked a significant milestone in the relationship between Taiwan and the Philippines. By blending cultural exchange with promotional efforts, Taiwan is set to continue attracting Filipino visitors who are eager to explore everything the island has to offer. Whether through night market experiences, cultural workshops, or delicious culinary delights, Taiwan has proven to be a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and enriching travel experience.

With its growing popularity, Taiwan is poised to become even more accessible and appealing to Filipino travelers in the years to come.