Transforming Cebu Into A Retirement Hub

[i am bob]

I can't verify this as truth but I have read that a "tax" for those arriving on International flights is being considered as a way to offset this loss.

There is an ad hoc, inter-agency government committee studying the visa waiver program. The difficulty with these committees is every member receives a per diem. The per diem is given where it's you or your secretary who shows up for the meeting. (The chair has to excuse your absence, as in "I have another meeting.") There is no incentive to hurry up and submit a recommendation.

Last I heard is the Bureau of Immigration wants to offset loss of income from the visa extension program. One proposal is a "free" 30 days visa waiver. If you are 55 years and older, you can request for a 90 days or 180 days visa waiver. This would require the payment of a fee (tax) upon entry.

Now this would make a lot of sense to me! That info I mentioned above that I had heard about was a couple different reporters trying to insert their 2 cents worth but I think now that they were either guessing or just trying to fill space - as per usual. What you have described would fit in so that no loss of revenue is necessary and the extended visas are still available. Thanks JJR!

[Markham]

As the ban is about to be lifted soon for select Philippine carriers who are using overseas leased aircraft with overseas maintenance, I guess they figure it shouldn't be too hard. The Aviation Maintenance Codes for the Philippines are being studied and redrafted as well which is going to bring it all in line with the rest of the world anyway so it should be a moot point soon.

That has been the position for the last four-plus years!