Philippines Promotes Boracay with Halal Tourism to Lure Gulf Countries Visitors

In an effort to attract more Muslim tourists, the Philippines is enhancing its resort offerings in Boracay by introducing halal-friendly options. 

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco announced these initiatives on Wednesday in Boracay, a top destination in the Philippine archipelago known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.

Philippines Targets Halal Market Growth

Located in the Aklan Province, Boracay has long been a favorite for international travelers because of its white sand beaches and beautiful coral reefs. As part of its strategy to boost tourism, the Philippines is now focusing on the Muslim travel market. 

This initiative follows the country's recognition as the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year at the 2023 Halal in Travel Global Summit in Singapore.

Arab News reported Secretary Frasco emphasized the importance of catering to Muslim visitors by providing halal products and services. 

She stated that discussions are ongoing with local government units and the Department of Tourism to integrate halal-friendly tourism more comprehensively across Boracay.

This move is part of a broader effort to tap into the lucrative market of halal tourism, which has been gaining global traction. Earlier in the month, a Philippine delegation attended the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai to promote the country's best destinations. 

During this event, a significant agreement was signed with Megaworld, one of the largest Philippine hospitality chains, to convert all their properties into Muslim-friendly establishments.

The Philippines has seen a 10% increase in visitors from Gulf countries this year, indicating a growing interest from this region. By providing more halal-friendly options, the Philippines aims to become a top choice for Muslim travelers around the world, enhancing its tourism sector further.

Related Article: AirAsia Philippines Proposes Direct Flights to Boracay, Aims to Cut Manila Congestion

Philippines Expands Tourism Ties with Brunei

The Philippines is set to fully open its tourism sector in Mindanao, aiming to attract more Muslim visitors, announced Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco on Wednesday. She informed the Philippine media that the Department of Tourism (DOT) has partnered with Megaworld Corporation to transform its facilities into Muslim- and Halal-friendly enterprises.

Frasco emphasized the significance of this move, stating, "Our goal is to fully open up Mindanao tourism, which, of course, has the closest relations in terms of Islamic influence to our Muslim brothers and sisters," according to GMA News.

Additionally, the Philippines has signed a tourism agreement with Brunei to increase tourist flows between the two nations, promoting niche tourism markets such as Islamic tourism. 

This agreement, aimed at diversifying visitor experiences in both countries, was signed by Frasco and Brunei's Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin.

The ceremony, which took place during President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr.'s two-day state visit, was also witnessed by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. 

This landmark deal is part of the Philippines' broader strategy to enhance its appeal as a destination for Muslim travelers and capitalize on the billion-dollar Halal tourism industry.

Read Also: 6 Surprising Cultural Differences Between the Philippines and Indonesia You Didn't Know