MANILA: The Philippine tourism secretary launched on Tuesday the government’s “Muslim-Friendly Travelogue” amid a rise in arrivals from Muslim-majority countries.
Tourism is a key sector for the Philippines, which since the COVID-19 pandemic has been trying to attract more visitors by creating Muslim-friendly destinations and ensuring that tourists have access to halal products and services.
The “Muslim-Friendly Travelogue,” the Philippines’ official guide for tourists planning their trips to the country, covers its Islamic history and heritage, recommendations for destinations, and halal culinary products available in all parts of the archipelago.
“Our target is really to be able to communicate that the Philippines is open and ready, and that it’s not just certain destinations, but Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao are open for Muslim travelers,” Tourism Secretary Cristina Frasco told reporters during the guide’s launch in Makati City.
“‘The Muslim Travelogue’ expands opportunities for the country. It allows us to penetrate non-traditional markets, so to speak, and casts a wider net in terms of international arrivals. We’re also making sure that the benefit of Muslim-friendly travel and halal travel is felt across our destinations.”
