Boracay Island is actively striving to become a Muslim-friendly tourism destination. On June 14, 2024, in Quezon City, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) launched SALAAM 2024: The Halal Travel and Trade Expo Philippines 2024.
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 Muslim-friendly 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 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 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.
