What TECO is
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the Philippines, located in Makati, serves as Taiwan’s de facto embassy. It provides consular, economic, cultural, and community services, including visa processing, cultural programs, and support for bilateral cooperation. TECO is a hub for travelers, students, businesspeople, and the Filipino-Taiwanese community (roc-taiwan.org, bworldonline.com, moneymax.ph).
History and diplomatic significance
TECO was established in 1975, following the Philippines’ diplomatic recognition of the People’s Republic of China and the closure of the official Taiwanese embassy. Despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties, TECO continues to support consular, economic, and cultural engagement between the Philippines and Taiwan.
The Philippines is consistently among Taiwan’s top sources of tourists and labor, while Taiwan remains an important partner in trade and investment (roc-taiwan.org).
What to see and services
Consular and visa services
TECO provides visa processing for tourist, business, student, group, and transit visas. As of July 2025, Filipinos can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days, subject to periodic review (moneymax.ph).
Other services include passport renewal, document authentication, notarial services, emergency assistance for Taiwanese citizens, and the issuance of entry permits and related documents for Taiwan-bound travelers.
Economic, labor, and employment support
TECO organizes trade missions, business forums, and networking events to encourage bilateral trade, and assists companies exploring trade and investment opportunities between the two countries.
It manages bilateral labor partnerships supporting more than 150,000 Filipino workers in Taiwan. The office also provides guidance and resources for Filipinos seeking work or study opportunities there.
Cultural and educational exchange
TECO hosts the Taiwan Film Festival, art exhibitions, culinary fairs, and traditional arts showcases. It offers Mandarin classes and scholarships, and supports academic exchanges.
The office also organizes annual festivals, cultural fairs, and educational seminars that welcome locals and visitors. Its cultural activities include Taiwanese art, crafts, culinary events, Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations, language programs, and cultural seminars. Some workshops may require advance registration.
Community and tourism outreach
TECO offers orientation and support for Taiwanese nationals in the Philippines, as well as resources for Filipinos researching study, migration, or employment in Taiwan. It collaborates with the Taiwan Tourism Administration to share travel information and promote Taiwan as a destination for Filipino tourists.
The first Taiwan Tourism Information Center in the Philippines was inaugurated in December 2024 (bworldonline.com).
Culture Center of TECO
The Culture Center of TECO is listed at Room 1004, 10th Floor, Federal Tower, Dasmarinas Street corner Muelle de Binondo, Manila. Its listed hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM, and Saturday, 8:30 AM–12:30 PM. Entry is free; some workshops may require advance registration.
Nearby attractions include Binondo Church, Manila Chinatown, and walking heritage tours.
Practical visiting information
TECO Manila
- Address 7/F Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.V. de la Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City, Metro Manila
- Operating hours Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM
- Visa and consular service hours Generally 9:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–4:30 PM
- Holidays TECO observes Philippine and Taiwanese public holidays. Check its official website for announcements and schedule changes (roc-taiwan.org).
Most visa and consular services require an appointment; appointments are encouraged for most services. Book online through the TECO website or by phone. TECO does not sell transportation tickets, but facilitates the visa process needed for travel to Taiwan. Prepare a passport, application forms, photos, and supporting documents, and follow the latest requirements on the official website (roc-taiwan.org).
- Contact number +63-2-8243-0059~61
- Email [email protected]
- Official TECO website MOFA Taiwan TECO Manila
- Culture Center information OCAC Culture Center Manila
RCBC Plaza
A separate visitor listing describes RCBC Plaza as a twin-tower complex in Makati and a major business and cultural center that houses international offices, including TECO. Its listed facilities include TECO’s consular office, the Culture Center of TECO in nearby Binondo, and the Taiwan Tourism Information Center.
- Hours Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; limited access on weekends and holidays
- Entry Free, with valid ID required for registration
- Transport Accessible by MRT Ayala Station, buses, jeepneys, and ride-hailing apps
- Parking Paid parking is available
- Accessibility Wheelchair-friendly facilities and accessible restrooms
Visitor tips
- Check TECO’s website for current document checklists and requirements, and check its official channels for schedule updates.
- English is widely used; Mandarin and Tagalog are also available for certain services.
- Stay updated on current health advisories.
- Facilities are described as wheelchair-friendly and equipped for visitors with special needs.
- TECO is accessible by MRT, buses, jeepneys, taxis, and ride-hailing services; paid parking is available.
- For event and travel-advisory updates, TECO also lists its website, social media, and the Audiala app as information channels.
Nearby places
The following sites are listed as attractions in Makati and Metro Manila:
- Ayala Museum Philippine art and history
- Greenbelt Mall Shopping and dining
- Salcedo Saturday Market Local food and crafts
- Ayala Triangle Gardens Urban green space
- Yuchengco Museum Filipino and Asian art
RCBC Plaza’s nearby sites include Ayala Triangle Gardens, Ayala Museum, and Greenbelt Mall.
Frequently asked questions
What are TECO Manila’s operating hours?
Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM. Visa services are generally available from 9:00 AM–12:00 PM and 1:00 PM–4:30 PM; they are also described as typically operating between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM.
Do I need an appointment for visa or consular services?
Most services require an appointment, and appointments are encouraged. They can be booked online.
Where is TECO located?
7/F Trafalgar Plaza, 105 H.V. de la Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City.
Can Filipinos visit Taiwan visa-free?
Yes. Filipinos can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days, subject to review.
Does TECO offer cultural events or Mandarin classes?
Yes. TECO hosts events, workshops, and language classes. Check its website for schedules.