The relationship between China and the Philippines has been strained in recent months, with the two countries struggling to balance diplomatic relations with their own safety and security concerns. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, both countries have implemented stringent travel restrictions to protect their citizens, which has only deepened the divide between the two nations.
The Chinese government has imposed a ban on the entry of Filipino citizens into mainland China, as well as a suspension of visa processing for Filipino tourists. In addition, all Chinese citizens who have recently visited the Philippines are also prohibited from entering the country. These restrictions have been in place since March 2020 and have been further tightened since then.
The Philippine government has taken a similar stance, issuing a ban on the entry of all Chinese nationals, whether they are from mainland China or from Hong Kong and Macau. This ban was issued in March 2020 and is still in place. The ban also applies to all Filipino citizens who have recently visited mainland China.
These travel restrictions have had a significant impact on diplomatic relations between the two countries. In the past few months, both sides have expressed concerns about the long-term implications of the restrictions. The Chinese government has accused the Philippine government of “using the pandemic as an excuse to interfere in its internal affairs” while the Philippine government has accused China of “attempting to use the pandemic to exert pressure on the country.”
The travel restrictions have also had an economic impact on both countries. Chinese tourists are a major source of income for the Philippines and the restrictions have caused a significant decrease in tourism. Similarly, the restrictions have resulted in a decrease in Chinese investments in the Philippines, which has had a negative effect on the country’s economy.
Despite the travel restrictions, however, the two countries have continued to maintain diplomatic ties. In June 2020, the Philippines proposed a joint investigation into the origins of the pandemic, a move that was welcomed by the Chinese government. The two sides have also expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and have held several high-level meetings in recent months.
While the travel restrictions between China and the Philippines are likely to remain in place for some time, both sides have expressed a willingness to work towards a more positive future. With both countries committed to maintaining a constructive dialogue, it is hoped that the current tensions can be resolved and diplomatic relations can be restored.