Philippines receives award for best Muslim destination
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines has received the award for best Muslim-friendly travel destination of the year.
The East Asian nation won this award at the recently held Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 in Singapore.
This award for non-Islamic countries recognizes destinations that cater to the special needs and preferences of Muslim travelers.
Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said the award is in recognition of her country’s immense opportunities to showcase its rich and diverse culture and heritage.
Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar accepted the award on behalf of the Department of Tourism.
Abubakar said the award recognizes the joint 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,” he said.
The Halal in Travel Global Summit 2023 evaluated many countries on the parameters of facilities available at destinations for Muslim travelers.
The Muslim travel market is expected to play a critical role in the growth of the tourism industry around the world.
The Philippines expects 140 million Muslim travelers to visit their country in 2023.
In the coming years, that number is expected to rise to 230 million. The country’s tourism authorities expect to generate $225 billion in revenue by 2028.