MANILA — In a bid to boost tourism, the Philippines' immigration bureau said it is allowing Indians who are international travelers to enter and stay in the country for two weeks, media said Saturday. Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Ricardo David Jr. said he had issued a memorandum permitting Indians to enter the country without a visa provided they hold valid visa from a European Union-member country or six other countries. The immigrations chief identified these countries as the US, Canada, Japan, Australia, Singapore, and UK. Prior to the issuance of the memorandum, Indian tourists were required to apply first for entry visa with a Philippine consulate in their port of origin before coming to the country. “Indian nationals who avail this scheme will be granted an initial stay of 14 days, which may be extended for an additional seven days," David Jr explained. However, he pointed out that in no case shall the Indian's stay exceed 21 days, which is the maximum allowable period that he can stay in the country. David said the policy change was in line with the government's campaign to attract more tourists. — Agencies
