The Philippine government recognises the potential of Islamic tourism and is dedicated to its development
DESTINATION
08 | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER . 2023
Philippine Airlines .
An emerging force
The Philippine government recognises the potential of Islamic tourism and is dedicated to its development
BY FATIHAH MANAF
THE Philippines , known for its breathtaking natural landscapes , rich cultural heritage , and stunning beaches , is actively exploring opportunities within the Muslim travel market . With over 7,000 islands and pristine white sand beaches , it offers unparalleled scenic beauty , making it a favoured choice among couples planning romantic getaways , especially honeymoons .
The country is keenly aware of this Muslim travel segment ’ s potential and has taken significant steps towards its capture . Recognising these efforts , the Philippines was awarded the ‘ Emerging Muslim- Friendly Destination of the Year ( Non-OIC )’ title at the prestigious Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 .
The Undersecretary of the Department of Tourism ( DOT ) Philippines , Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar , expressed the country ’ s delight at this recognition and emphasised its determination to become one of the leading Muslim-friendly destinations in the non-OIC category .
STRATEGIES TO BECOME MUSLIM-FRIENDLY
“ We ’ ve been pushing for the Philippines to become one of the countries known for being Muslim-friendly . We ’ ve been preparing for this for several years , including developing a memorandum circular for Department of Tourism-accredited accommodation establishments to be recognised as Muslim-friendly ,” said Valderrosa-Abubakar .
“ This memorandum circular includes six guidelines , such as ensuring Qibla in guestrooms , displaying the time of prayers at the front desk since foreign travellers
Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar
may not know the prayer times in the Philippines , providing a list of nearby mosques , and offering a list of halal or Muslimfriendly restaurants in the Philippines . This is one of our initiatives at the Department of Tourism Philippines .
“ We are also working on a three volumes travel guide for Muslim travellers . The first volume will focus on road trips for Muslim travellers , the second on halal food and Muslim-friendly restaurants , and the third on sites and attractions that Muslim travellers can visit in the Philippines .”
She mentioned that DOT Secretary Christina Frasco has strongly advocated Muslim-friendly tourism in the Philippines , and the government has allocated resources to support promotional efforts , among other initiatives .
SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF FILIPINO MUSLIMS
Valderrosa-Abubakar highlighted that
A traditional boat runs on Kayangan Lake in Coron Island , Philippines . Coron has been described as one of the best spots in the world for wreck diving .
Sleeping Dinosaur Island located on the island of Mindanao , Philippines . there was already a substantial population of 15 million Filipino Muslims in the Philippines . She pointed out that in addition to inviting international Muslim visitors , there is a significant domestic market within the Philippines . She also emphasised ongoing efforts to expand the availability of halal food .
“ While we have many halal-certified restaurants in Mindanao , few are in Luzon and Visayas . We are actively encouraging the establishment of more halal restaurants in these places . Our goal is to increase the number of halal restaurants in the country .
“ We have the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao . We have Sulu , Tawi-Tawi , and Basilan to promote because this is where the majority or dominant Muslim population resides . In Mindanao alone , we have the Zamboanga Peninsula , Region IX . We are building one of the biggest mosques there . One of the oldest mosques in the Philippines is in Zamboanga .
“ Then , we have some halal-certified restaurants in Cagayan de Oro , which is Region X . Region XI , in Davao Peninsula , also wants to be recognised as a halal city where they serve halal street food . In Region XII and XIII , we have Muslim communities there as well . These are all in Mindanao , but we also have many Muslim residents who live in Manila , who already cater to halal food .”
As one of the efforts to enhance its Muslim-friendly tourism ecosystem , the DOT Philippines expressed interest in working with the Islamic Tourism Centre ( ITC ).
“ We really would like to do more collaborations with ITC . The Philippines is just taking its baby steps towards becoming a Muslim-friendly destination . However , I am sure with ITC guiding us , we will be able to achieve what we want regarding Muslim-friendly tourism .” — R & R