Social Items


Shoppers and visitors to some of Makati's busiest commercial hubs will soon see an adjustment in parking fees. Ayala Malls has announced new parking rates for Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala, set to take effect starting July 16, 2025.



The advisory, released by Ayala Malls, outlines a slight increase in the daily parking charges across these prime destinations in the Ayala Center complex.

Loading...

Under the new structure, the first two hours of parking will now be charged at PHP 60.00. For every succeeding hour thereafter, a rate of PHP 20.00 will apply.




The updated rates aim to manage parking availability and support ongoing operational enhancements within the popular malls.


Patrons are advised to take note of the new fee structure when planning their visits to Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala starting mid-July.




Ayala Malls expressed gratitude for customers' understanding and continued patronage as these adjustments are implemented.


More Parking Guides and Updates . . .


Ayala Malls Glorietta, Greenbelt, and One Ayala Announce New Parking Rates


Public school teachers across the Philippines are set to receive significant salary increases over the next three years, as the government implements the fourth tranche of its ongoing compensation adjustment program for civil servants.



The new salary standardization schedule, spanning from 2024 to 2027, promises a progressive rise in wages, aiming to further professionalize and adequately compensate educators for their invaluable service.

The salary adjustments cover various teaching positions, from entry-level Teacher I roles to the highly specialized Master Teacher IV. These increases are part of a multi-year program designed to uplift the economic welfare of government employees, including the dedicated men and women in the education sector.

If you think that this is the career you wanted, here's a Complete Guide to Become a Public School Teacher in the Philippines 

Loading...

Public Teacher Salary Grades: 2024-2027 Tranches

The following table outlines the phased increases for different teaching positions:




Notable Increases

A Teacher I, for instance, will see their monthly salary grow from P28,512 in 2024 to P33,387 by 2027, representing a cumulative increase of nearly P5,000. Similarly, a Master Teacher IV, the highest teaching position listed, will experience a substantial rise from P67,005 in 2024 to P76,594 by 2027, an increase of over P9,500.



These adjustments are a testament to the government's recognition of teachers as pillars of national development. The consistent salary hikes are expected to not only improve the living standards of educators but also attract more talent to the profession, encouraging long-term commitment and reducing brain drain within the education sector.



The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) implements these salary modifications as part of broader efforts to standardize compensation across all government agencies, ensuring equity and competitiveness in public service. Teachers' unions and advocacy groups have long pushed for better compensation, viewing these sustained increases as a positive step towards fully valuing the immense contributions of educators to the nation's youth and future.


Read Next . . .


Government Rolls Out 4th Tranche of Public Teacher Salary Adjustments (2024-2027)


Navigating Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) can feel like exploring four separate airports. That's because NAIA's four terminals aren't connected by walkways, meaning you'll need a ride to get from one flight to your next. But don't sweat it! There are easy ways to move between Terminals 1 to 4, including a fantastic free shuttle service.



Free Ride: NAIA Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus

The good news is, you don't always need to hail a taxi or book a Grab. The Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA), now under the management of the New NAIA Infrastructure Corporation (NNIC) since September 2024, provides a free shuttle bus service that runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.


These buses are air-conditioned and have plenty of space for your luggage, ensuring a comfortable ride between any of the terminals – whether you're hopping from T1 to T3, T4 to T2, or any other combination.

Loading...

While this shuttle service used to run about once an hour, NNIC has been working to improve passenger mobility. You might find the buses are now more frequent than before, with aims to cut down those waiting times. Still, it's always smart to allot ample time for transfers – sometimes you just miss a bus!




How to Hop On

It’s pretty straightforward! Just show your ticket or boarding pass to the driver. The only catch is your onward flight needs to be within the next 24 hours.


Where to Catch Your Shuttle

Knowing where to wait is half the battle. Here's where you'll find the free shuttle bus at each terminal's arrival curbside:

  • Terminal 1: Keep an eye out for a huge sign that says "AIRPORT SHUTTLE / TRANSFER SERVICE" at the arrival curbside. You can't miss it!

  • Terminal 2: Head to the arrival curbside, right next to pick-up bay 19.

  • Terminal 3: This one takes a little walk. After you exit the baggage claim area, turn left and stroll towards the very end of the terminal. Once you reach the far end, turn left again. You should then spot the sign for the "Terminal Transfer Bus" or "For passengers with connecting flights to Terminal 1, 2, and 4."



Airline Promo Fares

If you are looking for cheap flights in the Philippines, see airlines listed below or view all promo fares:


Need to Dash? Your Paid Alternatives

Sometimes, time is of the essence, or you just prefer a more private ride. In those cases, you have reliable alternatives:

  • Taxis: You'll find accredited taxi stands outside all terminals. These can be a quick option, but always make sure the driver uses the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

  • Grab (Ride-Hailing Services): Grab is a game-changer for terminal transfers. Simply book a car through the Grab app, and it's often a very efficient choice, especially if you're loaded with luggage.

  • NAIA Terminal 3: Grab pickups are centralized at the Multi-Level Parking (MLP) Level A. Just follow the signs and coordinate with your driver via the app.

  • NAIA Terminal 1 & 2: The app will guide you to specific, designated bays for Grab pickups.

The good news is, a newly constructed expressway connects most of the NAIA terminals, meaning travel time between them via car or Grab is much shorter than it used to be.



Moving between NAIA's terminals doesn't have to be a headache. With the free shuttle service and convenient ride-hailing options, you can navigate your way to your next flight with less stress. Just remember to always factor in ample time for transfers, and you'll be well on your way!


Read More NAIA Guides


Here's Where and How to Avail NAIA Free Inter-Terminal Shuttle Bus


Atome, a leading "Buy Now, Pay Later" platform in Southeast Asia, is venturing deeper into the financial services sector in the Philippines with the phased launch of Atome Savings.



What is atome Savings?

This new digital savings account promises a competitive 3.25% per annum interest rate, paid daily, with the added benefits of no minimum balance, no lock-in periods, and robust security features.

Atome Savings is powered by Netbank Rural Bank, Inc., a fully licensed rural bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), ensuring that all deposits are managed and approved under a secure and regulated framework. Furthermore, a crucial layer of protection for depositors is the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) insurance coverage up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor, providing peace of mind for users.


Loading...

What Atome Savings Offers

Atome Savings is designed to be a smart and secure way to manage personal finances directly from the Atome mobile app. It aims to be a centralized hub for users to:

  • Receive and transfer funds.
  • Earn daily interest on their savings.
  • Conveniently repay their Atome Card and Cash Loan bills.

Key features include:

  • 3.25% p.a. interest: Earned daily on the end-of-day balance.

  • No minimum balance: Start saving with any amount.

  • No lock-in periods: Enjoy full flexibility to access your funds anytime.

  • Multi-factor authentication: Enhanced security for your account.

  • PDIC insured: Up to ₱1,000,000 per depositor.




How Does Atome Savings Compare?

While Atome Savings offers a strong 3.25% p.a. interest, it's beneficial for consumers to compare this with other popular digital savings accounts in the Philippines:

Atome Savings interest rate compared to other digital banks in the Philippines

Note: Interest rates are subject to change based on bank policies and market conditions. All interest earnings are subject to a 20% withholding tax.



How to Get Your Atome Savings Account

Currently, Atome Savings is available on an invite-only basis for selected users who have completed their Atome account registration. However, those interested can express their interest by applying directly through the Atome app. Simply head to the ‘Home’ tab, find the 'Savings' section, and follow the on-screen instructions if eligible, or join the waitlist for future slots.

The application process is fully paperless, aiming for a seamless user experience.

RELATED GUIDE: Here's How to Order a SeaBank Debit Card in the Philippines



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Atome Savings


Q: What is Netbank?
A: Netbank Rural Bank, Inc. is a fully licensed rural bank regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), authorized to provide general banking services, including managing the Atome Savings account under a white-label partnership.

Q: Is Atome Savings safe?
A: Yes, security is a priority. Atome Savings is protected by multi-factor authentication, and the balance of the deposit account is insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) up to PHP 1,000,000 per depositor.

Q: What can I use Atome Savings for?
A: You can manage all your money in one place. This includes receiving and transferring funds, saving to earn interest, and conveniently repaying your Atome Card and Cash Loan bills.

Q: Who can sign up for Atome Savings?
A: Atome Savings is currently available to selected users who have completed their account registration with Atome. More slots are expected to open soon.

Q: How much is the minimum initial deposit and lock-in period?
A: There’s no minimum initial deposit and no lock-in period, providing full flexibility over your money.

Q: What type of account will I get upon registration?
A: You will receive a Regular Savings Account upon registration.

Q: How is the interest calculated on my Atome Savings account?
A: Interest is calculated daily based on your end-of-day balance (between 12:00 AM and 1:00 AM) and is credited to your account every day. A 20% withholding tax is applied separately.

  • Daily interest = End-of-day balance × interest rate × (1/365)

  • For new accounts, interest starts accruing 24 hours after your first deposit is made. No interest is earned on the day of activation.

  • On the second day, interest credit is based on the average end-of-day balance of the first two days.

  • From the third day onwards, interest is calculated daily based on your end-of-day balance.

Q: When will I receive the interest earnings?
A: Your interest earnings will be credited to your account daily, after the end of the day.

Q: What are the deposit and fund transfer fees?
A:

  • Deposit fees: Free from other Netbank accounts. Over-the-counter deposit is PHP 18 per transaction (currently unavailable). For transfers from other banks/e-wallets, applicable fees are set by your provider.

  • Fund transfer fees: Free to other Netbank accounts. PHP 10 per transaction for transfers to other bank accounts or e-wallets via InstaPay or PESONet.

Q: What are the fees to maintain my Atome Savings account?
A: There are no fees for maintaining your Atome Savings account.

Q: Can I withdraw funds from my account via ATM?
A: At the moment, ATM withdrawals are not supported. Only online fund transfers to other bank accounts or e-wallets via PESONet, InstaPay, or direct transfers to other Netbank accounts are available.

Q: What is the SWIFT Code and Bank Code for Atome Savings account?
A: International fund transfers via SWIFT are not enabled for Atome Savings at the moment.


If you are looking to apply for a credit card, here are my Tips to Get Approved for a Credit Card Application.




Atome Savings: Here's What I Know So Far


For international travelers transiting through the world-renowned Changi Airport, a layover no longer means just waiting. Singapore is inviting transit and transfer passengers to explore its vibrant cityscape for free, with the enhanced Free Singapore Tour (FST) program offering a guided 2.5-hour experience designed to showcase the best of the island nation's rich culture and modern marvels.



Since April 1, 2025, the FST has introduced an exciting new itinerary – the Singapore River and Marina Bay Sands Tour – complementing the ever-popular City Sights Tour and Heritage and Culture Tour. With six tours running daily at various times, there's an option to suit nearly every schedule and interest, provided travelers have at least 5.5 hours of transit time.


"It’s a fantastic way to experience the highlights of the country’s rich ethnic influences and just might inspire you to return for a longer visit," stated a representative from Changi Airport.



Loading...

Dive into Singapore's Richness with Three Unique Tours


Merlion Park

1. City Sights Tour – For Lovers of Modern Architecture

This tour offers a breathtaking overview of Singapore’s impressive city skyline and its journey from a humble fishing village to a bustling global metropolis. Key highlights include:

Merlion Park: A 30-minute stop to capture photos with Singapore’s iconic half-lion, half-fish symbol against the stunning backdrop of Marina Bay Sands and the city's central business district.

Gardens by the Bay

Gardens by the Bay: Stroll through the futuristic landscape dominated by the towering Supertrees, marveling at Singapore's vision of a "City in a Garden." An optional Garden Audio Cruiser tram ride is available for an extra cost.



2. Heritage and Culture Tour – For an Immersive, Cultural Experience

Journey back in time and explore the diverse cultures that make Singapore a true melting pot. This tour showcases the nation's vibrant social tapestry:

Chinatown: A short stop to wander through streets lined with traditional shophouses, temples, and markets. Visitors can snap photos of the intricate Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and even pick up local snacks or souvenirs. An optional entry to the Chinatown Heritage Centre offers deeper historical insights for an additional fee.

Singapore's Chinatown

Kampong Gelam: Experience Singapore’s Malay-Muslim heritage, home to the stunning Sultan Mosque with its golden dome and a variety of local boutiques. This area is especially vibrant during festive periods like Ramadan/Hari Raya.



3. New! Singapore River and Marina Bay Sands Tour – For a Glimpse into Singapore’s Past and Present

Launched on April 1, 2025, this new tour traces the path of the Singapore River, the cradle of Singapore’s early trade and its symbol of modern transformation:

Singapore River: Learn about its evolution from a busy port to a serene escape, soaking in a skyline that blends skyscrapers, shophouses, and outdoor art. An optional scenic bumboat river cruise offers more historical commentary for an additional cost.


Marina Bay Sands: Take a stroll through The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, the shining jewel of Singapore’s luxury scene, featuring designer brands, celebrity chef restaurants, and unique indoor canal gondola rides.



How to Register and Important Information

Travelers can reserve their tour online through the Free Singapore Tour booking page or visit the dedicated counters in the transit halls of Changi Airport Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. Bookings can be made up to 50 days prior to the intended tour date.

A Free Singapore Tour Booth in Changi Airport Terminal 2 and 3

Important Notes for Participants


Visa Requirements: Citizens of certain nationalities may require a visa for the tour or might be eligible for a Visa Free Transit Facility. Travelers are advised to check the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s website for specific visa requirements.

Completing the Tour: Participants are strongly encouraged to complete the entire 2.5-hour tour. If one decides to leave midway, they must arrange their own transport back to the airport at their own expense, and Changi Airport will not be responsible for any missed connecting flights.

Flight Responsibility: Travelers remain responsible for their flight check-in and security procedures at their respective terminals.

Add-ons: Certain experiences within the tours, like the Garden Audio Cruiser or entry to the Chinatown Heritage Centre, come at an additional cost, payable during the tour.

To make the most of this unique layover opportunity, travelers are advised to plan early and conduct some research, utilizing resources like #FreeSingaporeTour on Instagram or Google Reviews for insights from past participants.


Here's How to Avail Free Singapore Tour from Changi Airport


The relationship between Israel and Iran is a complex tapestry woven with threads of ancient history, shifting geopolitical alliances, and ideological clashes. Once covert allies, these two regional powers have become bitter adversaries, locked in a multifaceted "shadow war" that frequently spills into overt confrontation and threatens wider regional instability.



From Ancient Ties to Early Cooperation

Remarkably, the earliest interactions between the ancestors of modern-day Israelis and Iranians were often characterized by cooperation. In the 6th century BCE, Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Persian Achaemenid Empire, famously allowed Jewish exiles in Babylon to return to Jerusalem and rebuild their Temple, a pivotal moment in Jewish history. This period of Persian rule is largely viewed favorably in Jewish tradition, highlighting a historical precedent of benevolence and religious tolerance. Biblical texts like Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther attest to the presence and experiences of Jews in Persia, with figures like Daniel also holding significant positions.

Loading...

Fast forward to the 20th century, following the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, Iran under the Pahlavi dynasty became one of the first Muslim-majority countries to recognize Israel. Driven by a shared apprehension of Arab nationalism and a desire to counter Soviet influence, a strategic, albeit discreet, alliance formed. This "periphery doctrine," championed by Israel's first Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, sought to forge alliances with non-Arab states like Iran, Turkey, and Ethiopia to circumvent the hostile Arab states surrounding Israel.

During this period, cooperation between Iran and Israel was extensive. Israel provided expertise in agriculture, engineering, and security, while Iran became a major oil supplier to Israel, particularly after Arab nations boycotted Israel following the Six-Day War. Trade ties flourished, and there was even significant military and intelligence cooperation, though largely kept covert to avoid provoking Arab nations. While the Shah maintained mutually beneficial ties, it's also important to note that he never established full diplomatic relations with Israel and often voiced support for the Palestinian cause, indicating a nuanced stance that sometimes gets oversimplified in historical narratives.



The Iranian Revolution: A Seismic Shift

The 1979 Islamic Revolution in Iran marked a dramatic and irreversible turning point. The overthrow of the pro-Western Shah and the rise of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini's anti-Western, anti-Zionist regime fundamentally reshaped Iran's foreign policy. Israel, once a strategic partner, was immediately denounced as the "Little Satan" (with the United States being the "Great Satan") and an illegitimate entity.

Diplomatic and commercial ties were severed, and the Israeli embassy in Tehran was symbolically transformed into the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) embassy. The new Iranian government embraced a revolutionary ideology that championed the Palestinian cause and actively sought to undermine Israel's existence, making opposition to Israel a central tenet of its political identity. This ideological shift was also driven by a desire to assert Iran's leadership in the Islamic world and put US-allied Arab regimes on the defensive.


The Era of Hostility and Proxy Warfare

Since the early 1980s, the relationship has been defined by deep-seated hostility and a pervasive proxy conflict across the Middle East. Key aspects of this antagonism include:

  • Support for Anti-Israel Groups: Iran became a significant patron of various Lebanese and Palestinian militant groups, most notably Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) in the Palestinian territories. These groups have engaged in numerous conflicts and attacks against Israel, acting as extensions of Iran's regional influence.

  • The Nuclear Program: Israel views Iran's nuclear program as an existential threat, fearing that Tehran is seeking to develop nuclear weapons. Iran insists its program is purely for peaceful purposes. This concern has driven much of Israel's strategy, leading to a series of alleged covert operations, cyberattacks (like Stuxnet), and assassinations of Iranian nuclear scientists aimed at delaying or disrupting Iran's nuclear ambitions. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has expressed serious concerns about Iran's uranium enrichment levels, which far exceed civilian needs and approach weapons-grade purity.

  • Regional Rivalries and Proxy Battlegrounds: The rivalry has played out in various regional conflicts. In the Syrian Civil War, Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes against Iranian military installations and Iran-backed militias, aiming to prevent Iran from establishing a permanent military foothold near its borders. Similarly, both nations have supported opposing sides in conflicts like the Yemeni Civil War, where Iran backs the Houthi rebels, who have also launched attacks toward Israel.

  • Direct Confrontations: While often a "shadow war," there have been instances of direct military confrontation, particularly since the escalation of the Middle Eastern crisis in late 2023. The 2024 Iran–Israel conflict marked a significant shift, with direct exchanges of missile and drone attacks. On April 1, 2024, Israel reportedly bombed an Iranian consulate complex in Damascus, killing senior Iranian officials. Iran retaliated on April 13, 2024, with a large-scale missile and drone barrage against Israel. Israel responded with further strikes in Iran on April 19, 2024. This pattern continued, escalating dramatically in June 2025. Israel launched a massive assault, codenamed "Operation Rising Lion," targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, military installations, and even residential areas, claiming to be preemptive strikes against Iran's advancing nuclear program and aiming to roll back the Iranian threat. These attacks resulted in significant casualties, including senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists. Iran immediately retaliated with waves of ballistic missiles and drones targeting Israeli military sites and cities, causing casualties and damage. This direct exchange has pushed the region into an unprecedented level of overt conflict.



Current Landscape and Future Prospects

The current state of affairs is one of extreme tension and a heightened risk of full-scale war. Both sides regularly issue stark warnings and engage in military posturing. International efforts to de-escalate have largely failed, and the involvement of global powers, particularly the United States, further complicates the situation. The recent direct military exchanges in June 2025 signify a new and dangerous phase in the long-standing animosity between Israel and Iran.

The history between Israel and Iran is a testament to how rapidly geopolitical landscapes can transform. From ancient periods of mutual benefit and modern-era strategic alliances, the relationship has devolved into a dangerous confrontation, shaped by profound ideological differences and competing visions for regional dominance. The trajectory of this conflict remains a critical determinant of peace and stability in the Middle East and beyond.


Israel-Iran Conflict, EXPLAINED!


Thousands of Iranians are fleeing Tehran today, jamming roads leading north out of the capital, as Israeli warplanes continue to bomb the city, hitting missile production sites and prompting mass civilian evacuations. The humanitarian crisis is deepening as the specter of direct U.S. military intervention looms, with President Donald Trump reportedly weighing options that include joining Israel in attacking Iranian nuclear facilities.



Overnight, 50 Israeli jets struck approximately 20 targets across Tehran, including facilities involved in producing raw materials, components, and manufacturing systems for missiles, an Israeli military official stated. Residents in a southwestern area of Tehran were specifically instructed by Israel to evacuate their homes ahead of anticipated airstrikes.


"We left Tehran this morning. My children were frightened, and we're going to stay at my brother's house near Karaj," Alireza, a 37-year-old businessman, told Reuters by phone, capturing the widespread fear. Arezou, 31, who found refuge in the nearby resort town of Lavasan, lamented, "My friend's house in Tehran was attacked and her brother was injured. They are civilians. Why are we paying the price for the regime's decision to pursue a nuclear program?"

Loading...

Escalating Rhetoric and US Options

Iran has retaliated with a fresh volley of missiles aimed at Israel and issued a stern new warning to the United States: any direct participation in the war by Washington would be met with a forceful response. Iran's ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Ali Bahreini, stated, "We will not show any reluctance in defending our people, security and land – we will respond seriously and strongly, without restraint." Bahreini also asserted that Iran already views the U.S. as "complicit in what Israel is doing."

The crisis has been further fueled by a flurry of social media posts from President Trump, who on Tuesday issued a demand for Iran's "UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!" and even mused about killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, stating, "We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now...Our patience is wearing thin."


A source familiar with internal White House discussions confirmed that Trump and his team are indeed considering direct involvement, including joining Israel in strikes against Iran's nuclear sites. The U.S. is already deploying more fighter aircraft to the Middle East and extending the deployment of other warplanes, while intelligence reports suggest Iran has begun moving some ballistic missile launchers.




Civilian Casualties and Strategic Blows

Inside Iran, the intensity of the attacks, the largest since the 1980s war with Iraq, has reportedly wiped out an echelon of senior leadership. Iranian officials have reported at least 224 deaths, predominantly civilians, though this toll has not been updated for days. To prevent panic and manage information, Iranian authorities have banned public filming and placed limits on fuel purchases. The inner circle of Supreme Leader Khamenei has reportedly been significantly narrowed, raising concerns about potential strategic miscalculations.

In Israel, Iran's retaliatory strikes mark a critical shift, as a significant number of missiles from Iran have penetrated air defenses for the first time in decades, killing civilians. Since Friday, Iran has launched around 400 missiles at Israel, with approximately 40 piercing through air defenses and resulting in 24 civilian deaths, according to Israeli authorities. Explosions were heard over Tel Aviv again on Wednesday morning as two barrages of Iranian missiles were launched.


Reports also emerged of clashes in the city of Rey, south of Tehran, between security forces and unidentified gunmen linked to Israel, suspected of planning "terrorist operations." Iranian news websites further claimed attacks on a university linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards in the country’s east, and the Khojir ballistic missile facility near Tehran.

The conflict has also spurred Iran to explore economic leverage, with a former Economy Minister suggesting that Iran should quickly start requiring permission for tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most vital oil shipping artery. This move, if implemented, could severely impact global oil markets.



As the conflict deepens, the international community watches nervously, grappling with the increasing civilian toll and the looming prospect of a regional conflagration.

Tehran Under Siege: Thousands Flee as Israeli Bombs Fall and US Considers Direct Action


Filipino tourists can continue to enjoy hassle-free travel to Taiwan for another year, as Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) officially announced the extension of its visa-free entry program for Philippine nationals until July 31, 2026.



The significant announcement was made by Taiwan's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lin Chia-lung, during the Philippine Independence Day celebration hosted by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei on Friday, June 13. The current visa-free privilege, which allows Filipinos to stay for up to 14 days, was set to expire on July 31, 2025, making this extension a welcome development for travelers.

"To continue to deepen bilateral ties between Taiwan and the Philippines, I announce that 'Taiwan will extend the visa-free entry program for Filipino nationals for one year,'" Minister Lin stated in his speech.


Loading...

The extension, effective from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, also covers nationals from Thailand and Brunei, aligning with Taiwan's "New Southbound Policy" aimed at strengthening engagement with Southeast Asian countries. MOFA clarified that it will continue to review and fine-tune its visa policies to both attract more visitors and ensure national security.




Minister Lin also expressed a reciprocal hope, urging the Philippines to consider granting visa-free privileges to Taiwanese nationals in the near future. "We also hope that in the near future, Taiwanese people will be able to travel visa-free to the Philippines under the principle of reciprocity, so that they can start a go-and-go holiday as long as they simply pack their bags and bring," a translated portion of his speech indicated.

Beyond individual tourism, MOFA confirmed that the "Project for Simplifying Visa Regulations for High-end Group Tourists from Southeast Asian Countries" will also be extended through December 31, 2026. The conditional visa-free entry via the Travel Authorization Certificate (TAC) scheme will similarly remain in place.



The extension underscores the flourishing people-to-people exchanges between Taiwan and the Philippines. Minister Lin highlighted that some 415,000 Filipino tourists visited Taiwan in 2024, making the Philippines Taiwan's largest source of tourists from Southeast Asia and fifth globally. He also acknowledged the vital contribution of approximately 160,000 Filipino migrant workers in Taiwan, recognizing their hard work in various sectors.

Lin emphasized the Philippines' role as an "important neighbor" due to shared values of freedom and democracy, and their strategic position within the Indo-Pacific First Island Chain. He reiterated the shared responsibility of Taiwan and the Philippines in maintaining regional peace and stability.

This positive development in tourism and bilateral relations follows a significant move by the Philippine government in April. Malacañang eased decades-old travel restrictions on Philippine government officials traveling to Taiwan for economic, trade, and investment purposes. Memorandum Circular No. 82, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, effectively modified Executive Order No. 313 from 1987, which had previously prohibited most official engagements with Taiwan in adherence to the One-China Policy.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.



Minister Lin noted that this relaxation lays a crucial foundation for the joint promotion of a Taiwan-Philippines Economic Corridor, fostering cooperation in fields such as agriculture, technology, energy, smart solutions, and economic resilience.

Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations due to the One-China Policy, both sides are clearly demonstrating a commitment to deepen substantive ties and facilitate greater exchanges.



Taiwan Extends Visa-Free Entry for Philippine Passport Holders Until 2026


Commuters navigating the bustling routes between Metro Manila's southern gateway and Rizal province now have a significantly more convenient option. The much-anticipated direct bus route from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) to Antipolo City officially began operations on Monday, June 16, 2025, providing a seamless, single-ride journey for thousands of daily travelers.

Operated by Baclaran Metrolink Bus Corp., this new route aims to cut down travel time and the hassle of multiple transfers that commuters previously faced. If you're planning to take this new service, here’s what you need to know:



Route Information


Terminal Location: At PITX, head to Gate 9, Bay 9 to board the Antipolo-bound buses.

Operating Hours: The service runs daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.


Fare: Its minimum fare starts at PHP 15, and the entire route costs PHP 92

Operator: Baclaran Metrolink Bus Corp.



Detailed Bus Stops (PITX to Antipolo)

This route is designed to connect key areas across Pasay, Taguig (via C5), Pasig, and into Rizal, offering numerous convenient pick-up and drop-off points.

Starting from PITX, the bus route includes stops at:

Loading...

  • Seaside Road
  • NAIA Rd. / MIA Rd. / Tambo
  • Airport Rd. / Domestic Rd. / Petron
  • Andrews Ave. / Brgy. 184 & 185 / Shell
  • Andrews Ave. / Brgy. 183
  • NAIA Terminal 3 / New Port
  • Villamor Air Base
  • Gate 3 / Sales Road
  • Bayani Road
  • Lawton Avenue
  • Venice Grand Canal Mall / BGC (Bonifacio Global City)
  • Upper McKinley Hill / C5
  • Market Market




Key Stops within Pasig City


The route notably offers several strategic stops within Pasig City, providing immense convenience for its residents:

  • Buting / Kalayaan / 19th Ave.
  • Bagong Ilog
  • RCL Residences / E. Rodriguez Ave.
  • Lanuza / Arcovia / Ugong
  • IPI / SM Hypermarket
  • Rosario / Lifehomes / Floodway / Tramo
  • St. Joseph / SM East



Continuing into Rizal Province


Beyond Pasig, the bus proceeds to crucial points in Rizal before reaching its final destination:

  • Junction / Big R / Park Place
  • Brookside
  • Valley Golf / Sierra Valley
  • Singer
  • Tikling
  • Palmera 3 & 4 / Melendres
  • Beverly Hills
  • Ynares / Capitol
  • Unciano
  • Antipolo Circle

The final destination stop for this route is Robinson Antipolo.



Tips for Commuters


Familiarize Yourself with Stops: Review the list of stops to know exactly where to board or alight.

Prepare Fare: While not yet publicly specified, it's always wise to have exact change or be prepared for cashless payment options if available.

Be Aware of Traffic: While direct, travel times can still be influenced by Metro Manila's notorious traffic, especially during peak hours.

Confirm with Crew: For the most up-to-date information on specific stops or any potential deviations, always confirm with the bus conductor or driver before or during your journey.




This new PITX-Antipolo bus route marks a significant improvement in public transportation connectivity, offering a more efficient and comfortable option for thousands of commuters daily.



PITX-Antipolo Route: Bus Schedule, Stops and Fare (Guide)

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)