Requests for American citizens to obtain a visa if visiting the Philippines would harm the country's tourism industry, analysts said.

Americans can launch a beach-studded island nation with a free visa on arrival, saving time and application costs before traveling.

"If we look at Philippine policy in talks with America, of course, the Philippines will consider the problems of Americans with such visa policies," said Maria Ela Atienza, professor of political science at the University of the Philippines in Diliman. He added "Americans will have choices in other countries."

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said last month through his office website that Americans would ask for tourist visas if America remained linked to Filipino officials linked to the detention of Leila de Lima entering America. Leila de Lima is a Filipino senator who is at odds with Duterte.

Visa requests will reduce feelings that are not accepted among Filipinos who have been demanding so far. Filipinos must pay a fee of $ 160 for a visa application.

Source : VOA