Juan Mari Paolo Paloma, Manager of Santan Philippines; Ricardo P. Isla, CEO of AirAsia Philippines; Sec. Christina Garcia Frasco, Department of Tourism; Usec. Myra Paz Valderrosa Abubakar, Department of Tourism. Photo: George Buid.
The Philippines is taking off in its pursuit of Halal tourism. This involves a landmark partnership between the Department of Tourism (DOT) and AirAsia Philippines. On January 9th, 2025, DOT and AirAsia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the DOT Central Office in Makati City. This solidified AirAsia’s commitment to enhancing the country’s Muslim-friendly travel experience.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and AirAsia Philippines CEO Ricardo F. Isla spearheaded the momentous signing. The agreement designates AirAsia Philippines as the first DOT-recognized Muslim-friendly airline in the country. This is a crucial step in attracting more Muslim tourists. A key element of the partnership is the provision of Halal-certified meals. Santan Philippines supplies these meals on all AirAsia Philippines flights.
The DOT will play an active role. It will provide training to its staff. This will better support the airline’s initiatives. The goal is to further strengthen its Muslim-friendly tourism offerings. This collaboration highlights a significant investment in expanding the country’s tourism sector to a wider global audience. Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar and AirAsia Philippines Santan Manager Pax Paloma served as witnesses to this groundbreaking agreement. This initiative promises to significantly elevate the Philippines’ position as a premier Halal tourism destination.
