The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said on Saturday that it is confident the Philippines will retain its visa-free entry privileges in Taiwan, despite a Taiwanese official recently stating it could be renewed annually.

Filipinos currently enjoy a visa waiver for stays up to 14 days, excluding those with diplomatic or official passports, until July 31st. Representative Peiyung Hsu of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines indicated the waiver could continue being extended yearly, citing the importance of "people-to-people connectivity".

MECO chairperson Silvestre Bello III remarked that Taiwan requires Filipino workers not solely for tourism, but for other business sectors too.

"We were notified of potential policy revisions, but so far nothing concrete, and I remain confident our visa-free privilege will not be eliminated since they need Filipinos," Bello told reporters.

Bello, a former labor secretary, said he was not inclined to request lengthening the visa-free duration.  

Taiwan aims to attract at least 200,000 Filipino tourists and 200,000 Taiwanese tourists to the Philippines.

Bello added that around 5,000 Filipinos may soon be required for the manufacturing industry.

Meanwhile, Bello stated the situation in Taiwan is normal and the Taiwanese government has ensured the safety of overseas Filipinos there amid rising tensions with neighboring China.

The Philippine government is monitoring the welfare of Filipinos in Taiwan, while noting Taiwan is prepared to protect not just its own citizens but foreigners too in an emergency.

Taiwan's National Police Agency has also given assurances that Filipinos would be secured and protected, Bello added.

"I met with the Director General and the head of the Home Civilian Defense of Taiwan and they assured us they will protect our countrymen," said the MECO official.

Bello pointed out Taiwan has 89,000 shelters able to accommodate more than the total island population, exemplifying their readiness. "That is how prepared Taiwan is and they really treasure our OFWs because according to them, they are the best in manufacturing," he added.

It's estimated up to 90% of Taiwan's factories utilize Filipino workers. Approximately 160,000 OFWs are in factories, while others work in teaching, agriculture, hospitality and highly-skilled roles.

Cross-strait tensions have escalated between China and Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing claims as a province.