Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 1) — Japan is easing visa requirements for Filipinos traveling for business or cultural reasons beginning this month.

The Japanese Embassy in Manila announced this through a statement released Wednesday.

Filipino nationals seeking short-term stays for business purposes, as well as cultural or intellectual activities will benefit from the relaxed policy.

According to the statement, the scope of applicants eligible for multiple entry visas "will be expanded."

The visa validity period will also be extended from five years to ten years maximum.

The embassy said the relaxed entry requirements aims to promote "people-to-people exchanges between Japan and the Republic of the Philippines."

It is also expected "to contribute to the improvement of convenience for tourists, as well as increase in repeat visitors," the statement added.

The full outline of the application process for the multiple entry visa is detailed on the Japanese embassy website.