The Department of Tourism (DOT) said it is set to formalize an agreement with AirAsia Philippines, officially designating it as a Muslim-friendly airline to enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco confirmed that the agreement would be signed in January 2025.
“This dedication to inclusivity has allowed the Philippines to earn recognitions, such as the Emerging Muslim-friendly Destination of the Year for non-OIC Countries at the Mastercard CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index announced during the Halal in Travel Global Summit 2024 in Singapore,” she said.
Visitor arrivals from Muslim-majority countries posted significant growth, with 547,197 visitors recorded from January to November 2024, a 9.8-percent increase from 2023.
The Philippines had 17 DOT-recognized Muslim-friendly accommodation establishments (MFAEs) as of Dec. 5, 2024, 13 of which are Megaworld Hotels and Resorts properties. The DOT earlier signed a memorandum of understanding with Megaworld Hotels.
Other developers also committed to converting their properties into Muslim-friendly standards by next year.
AirAsia teamed up with the Universal Islamic Center (UIC) and the Philippine Halal Trade & Tourism to enhance its offerings for Muslim travelers.
The collaboration will allow Halal-certified meal options to be served on all flights.
The partnership is also expected to organize events like the Halal Culinary Cup in Davao during the Kadayawan Festival, with the winning dish featured on the in-flight menu.
