The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has announced the accreditation of additional hotels as Muslim-friendly accommodations. In a briefing held on July 3, tourism undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar revealed that properties under Robinsons Hotels and Resorts (RHR) are currently being inspected for certification.

This initiative follows a memorandum of understanding signed between RHR and DOT, aimed at enhancing the Philippines as a top Muslim-friendly tourism destination. The partnership focuses on increasing halal tourism options and accommodating Muslim visitors throughout the country, aligning with the Halal Tourism and Muslim-friendly Tourism Roadmap set by the Philippine government.

As Valderrosa-Abubakar stated, “It is very important that we show our Muslim brothers and sisters that the Philippines is actually ready to welcome all of them to come to the Philippines. We’ve noted that the first thing they need are immediately available accommodations that are Muslim-friendly and offer compliant food options.”

Moreover, the DOT plans to establish a memorandum circular to certify Muslim-friendly restaurants nationwide.

An Increasingly Popular Destination for Muslim Tourists

In 2024, the Philippines welcomed 5,949,350 international visitors, with 10.3% coming from predominantly Muslim countries, a significant increase of 23.7% compared to the previous year. The country climbed three spots to the eighth position in the 2025 Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) for non-OIC members, achieving a score of 53, up from 47 last year.

Notably, in 2023 and 2024, the Philippines received accolades as the Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination of the Year (Non-OIC) at the Halal in Travel Awards.