First-Ever Muslim Travelogue in PH Launched

The first-ever Muslim Travelogue in the Philippines — a publication that showcases the beauty, diversity, and inclusivity of the country through the lens of Muslim-friendly travel — has been launched by the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The three-volume publication takes local and international visitors on a journey through faith, culture, and cuisine. (Photo: Department of Tourism)

The three-volume publication provides a practical guide for domestic and international visitors to experience the Philippines, taking them on a journey through faith, culture, and cuisine.

Volume 1: Muslim-Friendly Philippines 101 explores the deep roots of Islam in the country’s heritage, communities, and people.

Volume 2: Muslim-Friendly Travel maps destinations, accommodations, and itineraries for visitors’ comfort and cultural respect.

Volume 3: Muslim-Friendly Culinary Experiences celebrates halal and Muslim-friendly Filipino cuisine crafted by renowned Muslim chefs from Mindanao and other regions.

The travelogue was developed in partnership with the integrated marketing communications agency New Perspective Media Group.

The launch was spearheaded by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, together with Malaysian Ambassador Malik Melvin Castelino, Brunei Ambassador Megawati Manan, Embassy of Saudi Arabia Second Secretary Mohammed Alkhudhayri, Embassy of Qatar Public Relations Officer Awab Elahmar, and New Perspective Media Corporation CEO Karen Remo and COO Vince Ang.

“Today marks another step in our continuing work to transform Philippine tourism not only as an engine of growth but as a catalyst of development driven by purpose, inclusivity, and impact. The Muslim-Friendly Travelogue of the Philippines embodies this vision,” Secretary Frasco said during the event.

“It is a guide and a roadmap for welcoming the world with respect, warmth, and understanding. Through the travelogue, visitors will discover historic sites that celebrate our shared heritage, culinary experiences that showcase our halal and Muslim-friendly offerings, and destinations designed to promote comfort, safety, and hospitality for all,” she added.

International Awards and Recognitions

The Philippines was awarded Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (for non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation members) during the Halal in Travel Global Summit (HITGS) 2023 held in Singapore.

The award recognizes destinations that cater to the distinct needs and preferences of Muslim travelers. The country received the award again in 2024.

The Philippines was also recognized in the Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2025 as a welcoming country for Muslim travelers, ranking 8th among destinations that are not part of the OIC.

(Left to right) Usec. Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, Brunei Ambassador Megawati Manan, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino

The country previously ranked 12th in the GMTI 2024, demonstrating further improvement this year.

The GMTI report, jointly produced by Mastercard and CrescentRating, highlighted the country's ongoing efforts to build an inclusive and culturally sensitive tourism sector.

The Philippines is among the non-OIC destinations described in the GMTI report as making “strong gains” this year, along with Taiwan, Thailand, Ireland, and Australia.

The GMTI 2025 report stated, “The Philippines is steadily positioning itself as a Muslim-friendly destination by strengthening its capacity to welcome Muslim travelers. Efforts focus on improving accessibility to halal food and integrating Muslim-friendly features at key tourist sites.”

The report also noted that Philippine tourism authorities have launched initiatives to expand halal-certified dining and accommodations, while stakeholders have been educated on Muslim visitors’ needs.

“With these efforts and the promotion of its diverse culture and natural beauty, the Philippines is emerging as an appealing destination for Muslim travelers in Southeast Asia,” the report said.

The DOT highlighted the GMTI report’s mention of the expansion of Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, which, according to the department, became the first hotel group in the Philippines to be fully recognized as 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments across all 13 of its properties.

The department also said Megaworld's efforts were acknowledged at the Halal in Travel Global Awards 2025 in Singapore, where it was named Muslim-Friendly Hotel Chain of the Year.

It emphasized the amenities offered at Megaworld properties, such as Qibla direction markers, prayer rugs upon request, water-friendly restrooms, halal-certified food offerings, designated prayer spaces, and gender-separated spa areas.

Bright Prospects for Halal and Muslim-Friendly Tourism

According to the DOT, these recognitions from the Halal in Travel Global Summit and the Global Muslim Travel Index affirm the Philippines’ position as a halal and Muslim-friendly destination, as it continues to transform leading and emerging tourist spots to promote inclusivity and diversity regardless of race or faith.

“By prioritizing halal and Muslim-friendly tourism, we not only demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and cultural sensitivity but also open opportunities to attract more Muslim travelers from around the world, while expanding markets for our tourism stakeholders and creating more livelihood and employment for our fellow Filipinos,” the department added.

International Muslim tourist arrivals were reported to have reached 176 million in 2024, with forecasts suggesting that this number may grow to 245 million by 2030.

By then, global Muslim travel spending is projected to hit $230 billion, underscoring the sector's economic importance. According to the DOT, boosting Muslim-friendly tourism is a vital component of the Philippines’ National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028.