DOT: Philippines a top pick for digital nomads

CEBU, Philippines — Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco listed the advantages of the Philippines in attracting digital nomads when she represented the Philippine government as a key speaker at the Skift Asia Forum 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand, the other day.

Frasco highlighted the English-speaking population, ease of travel, and strong infrastructure for remote workers.

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely while traveling, often relying on the internet and digital tools to perform their job.

Last month, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Executive Order 86 in April 2025, authorizing the issuance of the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) for foreign professionals to work remotely while enjoying the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness.

"Long-stay travelers from all over the world work in paradise, where the value proposition is not just affordability but high-value experiences… With immersive cultural programs, exceptional hospitality, and stunning islands ready to welcome digital nomads, the Philippines is an ideal destination for remote workers,” she said.

The government has also laid policy groundwork to accommodate longer stays, with the Philippine Retirement Authority already offering a Special Resident Retiree’s Visa, allowing foreigners to extend their stay beyond the one-year limit of the DNV.

"We want to attract quality travelers --those who respect our sustainable tourism framework and contribute positively to local communities,” Frasco added.

The Philippines is poised to become a top digital nomad fostering an ecosystem where travelers can work, explore, and contribute to local communities --all while embracing the country’s rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

Recognizing the importance of internet connectivity for digital nomads, the Marcos administration has partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology to expand Wi-Fi services in over 90 tourism destinations across the country, DOT said. — (FREEMAN)