ILOILO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT)-Western Visayas is calling on businesses to invest in the development of Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism services as the region looks to tap the increasing global demand for inclusive travel.
Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez highlighted the Philippines’ strides in developing its Halal tourism sector, noting the establishment of Marhaba Boracay in Malay, Aklan, as a significant milestone.
The facility, designed specifically for Muslim travelers and their families, adheres to Islamic laws and incorporates feedback from Muslim guests. It is Boracay’s first Muslim-friendly cove, underscoring the region’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity.
“This highlights the nation’s commitment to embracing more Muslim tourists. As you are well aware, this year the Philippines will be hosting the ASEAN Leaders Conference, and most of our neighboring nations are majority Muslim,” Rodriguez explained.
The DOT has also partnered with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to implement a series of training activities for tourism frontliners and allied service providers.
These activities are designed to provide staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the particular requirements of Muslim tourists. Pilot training activities have already been conducted in Boracay in the first quarter of the year, with more comprehensive activities planned for the third quarter.
The emphasis will be on Halal certification and Muslim-friendly services. Rodriguez explained that companies do not have to undertake drastic changes in order to become Halal-certified.
In the case of hotels, only five percent of the rooms are required to comply, and this includes the provision of a Qibla, a Quran, and prayer rooms.
The DOT is also giving priority to the construction of Muslim-friendly facilities at airports and seaports in the region. There are plans to locate and establish areas for prayer rooms in these major transport hubs.
Rodriguez called on other firms to join the project, emphasizing the benefits of accessing the new Muslim market. She stated that Halal tourism not only fosters inclusiveness but also positions Western Visayas as an open destination to travelers from traditionally Muslim countries.
Through the development of Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, the DOT aims to promote the country’s global appeal while upholding cultural and religious sensitivities, especially as the Philippines is poised to host high-profile international events such as the ASEAN Leaders Conference.