The Department of Tourism's (DOT) recent launch of a Muslim-friendly travelogue has earned praised from Mindanao-based members of the House of Representatives.

Hailing the initiative of DOT Secretary Christina Frasco via separate statements were Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong and Cagayan de Oro City 2nd district Rep. Rufus Rodriguez.

"This landmark initiative marks a major step toward making our tourism industry not only more vibrant, but also more inclusive, respectful, and culturally attuned to the diverse identities that make up our nation," Adiong said.

"I echo the good secretary, 'Philippine tourism is not just ‘more fun,’ but now ‘more inclusive in the Philippines,'” he said, referring to the country’s old tourism catchphrase.

Adiong said that through the travelogue, the Philippines "proudly recognizes the important role of Muslim travelers, both local and foreign, and ensures that their faith, culture, and values are reflected and respected in every aspect of their journey".

The three-volume travelogue, which features our rich Islamic heritage, Muslim-friendly destinations, and halal culinary experiences, beautifully highlights how our diversity can be our greatest strength. It serves not only as a guide for travelers, but also as a statement to the world that the Philippines welcomes everyone with respect, warmth, and understanding.

For part, Rodriguez said the DOT initiative “will bring about not only inclusivity, more understanding of Muslim culture, arts and halal culinary tradition but will give more income to the Muslim communities".

“This is an affirmative action by our government through the DOT to bring our Muslim citizens to the mainstream, foster their economic growth through tourism after centuries of inherited disadvantages,” said the lawyer-solon.

He noted that the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)--the poorest region of the country--can "enhance its social and economic status" through this travelogue.

“As a Mindanaonon who truly believes in Christian, Muslim and Lumad unity in diversity, I laud DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for this trailblazing initiative!,” he added.

Rodriguez urged the DOT to send copies of the publication to foreign embassies in Metro Manila, and to Muslim organizations and tour agencies that promote travel and tourism in Mindanao.

The travelogue is part of a broader effort by the DOT to make the Philippines a leading destination for halal and Muslim-friendly tourism.

Among these initiatives are the issuance of Memorandum Circular 2024-003 to standardize Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishments (MFAEs), the successful staging of SALAAM: Halal Tourism and Trade Expo, and the partnership with Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, whose 13 properties have been recognized as 100% MFAE-certified. The Department has also begun constructing Tourist Rest Areas in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, and has extended support to promising developments such as Marhaba Cove in Boracay.

Adiong said these sustained efforts to strengthen the halal tourism industry will greatly benefit our Muslim travelers, especially those from our key partners in the Muslim world.

Notably, the launch was attended by Malaysian Ambassador Malik Melvin Castelino, Brunei Ambassador Megawati Manan, and representatives from Saudi Arabia and Qatar, underscoring the growing regional and international interest in the Philippines as a Muslim-friendly destination.

In 2023, the Philippines welcomed 79,041 tourists from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), surpassing the pre-pandemic figure of 68,562 in 2019. Leading the influx were travelers from the United Arab Emirates with 33,769 arrivals, followed by Saudi Arabia with 19,311, while Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman contributed 10,438, 6,915, 5,886, and 2,695 arrivals, respectively.

"As a representative from Lanao del Sur and a proud Maranao, I deeply commend the DOT for its active engagement with Muslim communities, local government units (LGUs), and our ASEAN neighbors in shaping this initiative," Adiong said.

"This project is a testament to the power of consultation, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity in building a tourism industry that truly reflects who we are as a nation. May this milestone inspire more programs and policies that foster interfaith understanding, economic inclusivity, and mutual respect among all our peoples," he further said.