The Philippines is intensifying its efforts to become a welcoming destination for Muslim travelers, according to tourism authorities who announced the news on Saturday. This comes after the nation was recognized at this year’s Halal in Travel Global Summit, receiving the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year award.
The growing Muslim travel market is projected to reach $225 billion by 2028. Recognizing this potential, the Philippine government last year set a priority to increase tourist arrivals from the Middle East and Muslim-majority countries.
The country’s efforts were honored at the Halal in Travel Global Summit, a significant industry event held in Singapore from May 30 to June 1. The summit celebrates entities and individuals who have significantly impacted the Muslim travel market during the year.
“The Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year award acknowledges our joint efforts to position the Philippines as a favorite destination for Muslim tourists, and to strategically develop our halal tourism offerings across our regions,” said Secretary Cristina Frasco of the Philippine Department of Tourism in a statement.
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She continued, “This global recognition also provides immense opportunities for our country to showcase our rich and diverse culture and heritage that our Muslim communities reflect, and our incredibly beautiful destinations, including Mindanao.”
In the Philippines, where Catholics constitute the majority, Muslims make up about 5% of the 110 million population. Most live on the southern island of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, regions famed for picturesque landscapes featuring white sandy beaches and azure waters.
With many Muslim travelers keen on finding halal, or Islamically permissible food, the Philippine Department of Tourism has implemented a wide range of services and amenities specifically designed for them.
Accepting the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year award, Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar of Tourism stated, “We aspire to maintain this positive momentum in tourism promotion and economic growth for our Muslim brothers and sisters arriving in the Philippines.” She invited Muslim visitors to experience the archipelago nation’s hospitality and explore its over 7,000 islands.
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