The Philippines is turning a new page in its tourism story, one written with deeper cultural understanding and inclusivity. This week, the Department of Tourism (DOT) launched a three-volume Muslim-friendly travelogue, a project designed to open the country’s doors wider to Muslim travelers from around the world.
The travelogue offers more than just destination guides. It’s a bridge that connects faith, heritage, and hospitality. Inside are stories and insights on Islamic culture in the Philippines, halal dining options, and travel experiences that honor Muslim customs.
“This travelogue expands opportunities for our country,” said Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco during the launch in Makati. “It’s not limited to a few destinations—it celebrates our diversity, from our islands and history to our food and local products,” she added.
Welcoming More Muslim Travelers
The launch comes as the Philippines sees strong growth in arrivals from Muslim-majority countries. In 2024 alone, over 613,000 visitors came from Islamic nations—a 23.7 percent rise from the previous year. Most were from Malaysia, with growing numbers from Indonesia, Brunei, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
“The upward trend shows that our strategies are working. We want Muslim travelers to feel that the Philippines is open, welcoming, and ready for them,” Frasco said.
Each volume of the travelogue highlights a different facet: the roots of Islam in the country, the best halal dining spots, and the scenic destinations where culture and nature meet.
Building a Muslim-Friendly Future
Since earning recognition as an emerging Muslim-friendly destination in 2023, the Philippines has continued to grow its halal tourism network, accrediting more Muslim-friendly hotels and services. The country now ranks eighth among non-OIC destinations in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index.
Looking ahead, the DOT is set to bring the Philippines’ story to a global stage at the 2026 Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, where it hopes to attract even more travelers from the Middle East.
“Tourism is about connection,” Frasco said. “Through initiatives like this, we’re showing the world that the Philippines embraces all cultures—and welcomes everyone home,” she added.
