Philippines awarded emerging Muslim-friendly destination 2023

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines was awarded as the Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year during the recent Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 in Singapore.

The Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (non-OIC) award specifically recognizes destinations that cater to the distinct needs and preferences of Muslim travelers.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the award recognizes “immense opportunities for our country to showcase our rich and diverse culture and heritage, exemplified by our Muslim communities and breathtaking destinations, including Mindanao.”

Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar accepted the award on behalf of the Department of Tourism, CrescentRating and Halal Trip, recognizing the collective efforts of the Philippine government and tourism stakeholders.

“We aspire to continue making great strides in promoting tourism and boosting our economy for our Muslim brothers and sisters who visit the Philippines,” Abubakar said.

The Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 acknowledges the significant contributions of destinations, organizations, companies and individuals in the Muslim lifestyle travel segment.

Frasco highlighted the DOT’s commitment to developing the country’s halal tourism portfolio, ensuring its prioritization in the National Tourism Development Plan for 2023 to 2028.

The Muslim travel market is expected to play a pivotal role in propelling the growth of the tourism industry.

Projections have indicated that Muslim traveler arrivals would reach 140 million this year and could potentially soar to 230 million in the coming years, accompanied by estimated expenditures of $225 billion by 2028.