During the event ’ s opening , DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco announced the agency ’ s plan for a ‘ Muslim-friendly Boracay ’. This initiative seeks to enhance the country ’ s appeal to Muslim tourists , given that tourism plays a crucial role in the country ’ s economy .

According to DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar , the idea of turning Boracay into a Muslim-friendly spot was proposed two months ago . This was discussed during a meeting between DOT , officials of the Malay local government , and the ambassadors of Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam .

Malay Mayor Frolibar Bautista proposed three sites as private coves for Muslim women to swim . Bautista also suggested modifying the layout of the Boracay port to add a Muslim prayer room .

The campaign to make Boracay a Muslimfriendly destination is expected to launch in September this year . Boracay ’ s promotion as an inclusive and welcoming destination for Muslim tourists will begin with the launch .

However , due to the constitutional tenet of the separation of church and State , the government does not have a programme

Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar

to certify establishments as halal . DOT is working closely with third-party halal certifiers to ensure that establishments meet the standards for halal certification .

DOT is “ dedicated to positioning the Philippines as a viable destination for Muslim travellers ,” stated Frasco .

Frasco also mentioned DOT ’ s support for the initiatives taken by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ( BARMM ) to attract more Muslim tourists .

DOT is also actively collaborating with restaurant owners to develop halal versions of Filipino dishes . Additionally , DOT is focused on reducing security alert levels across the islands .

Quezon City is one of Metro Manila ’ s most Muslim-friendly local government units . The

Christina Garcia-Frasco

Frolibar Bautista

city is home to up to 50,000 Muslims and 45 mosques . It has also registered nearly 20 Muslim-friendly restaurants , contributing to cultivating an inclusive environment .

Additionally , the local government of Quezon City has initiated several programmes to support the Muslim community through its tourism department and the Bangsamoro Affairs Office .

These initiatives include organising an annual best halal dishes competition , collaborating with DOT for halal certification , and partnering with the private sector to mainstream halal food , products , and services .

These efforts reflect Quezon City ’ s commitment to making the city a Muslim-friendly destination .