The Philippines hit the top 5 in the Global Muslim Travel Index. An achievement highlighted at the opening of SALAAM 2026 at the Gateway Mall 2. The country’s growing appeal to Muslim travelers.
Tourism Secretary Dita Angara-Mathay accepted the award at the opening ceremony. Mr. Tawfiq Ikhtiano of Crescent Rating handed the award to Sec. Angara-Mathay.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) continues its efforts, which have paid off, to push the country as a top destination. The Philippines climbed from the 8th rank last year. Belonging to the top 20 Muslim-friendly destinations among the non-Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries.
Sec. Angara-Mathay shares her thoughts, “I’m very happy. I’m very proud, even though I haven’t done any [yet]. The people before us worked tirelessly to this point. I think it encourages and inspiration to make better improvements and contribute more. I think we can do very well. In fact, I’m thinking and should be in our tourism to visit BARMM, Tawi-Tawi, and Sulu because they’re beautiful places.”
She adds, “We will not stop there. We should be number three. We should never rest on our laurels, right? This is what to discover.”
The Tourism Secretary indicates that discovering the Philippines is a refresher campaign. It enhances the current campaign Love The Philippines. It encourages Filipinos to rediscover the country as local tourists. Halal became a niche tourism market to drive local tourism. The Secretary hopes to expand this to the international community.
The department is taking advantage of this niche tourism market. DOT has seen these markets as drivers for sustainable tourism. SALAAM 2026 is a good example.
The DOT thanked industry partners for promoting Halal tourism. One of these partners is Megaworld’s hotel, such as the Savoy Hotel Manila, Belmont Hotels, and more. However, they want to go beyond just hotel accommodations.
The DOT is opening wider doors for this demographic. The Tourism Secretary wants to showcase the rich culture and diverse Filipino heritage from various regions. Each region has something unique to offer. SALAAM 2026 is bringing together this opportunity.
States, “Apart from our beaches and diving institute. I want to promote our culinary and historical sites. An example of this is the slow food. The slow food is great; it is sustainable. It is using local ingredients, local preparation, and communicating with people. We eat together. “
SALAAM 2026 goes beyond Halal accreditation. It promotes culinary traditions unique to various Philippine provinces. It highlights traditions from unpopular places that taste can bring to the event.
This is why local government units and international stakeholders are present at SALAAM 2026. The event reaches out to industry leaders and travel enthusiasts alike. Thus, the demand for Muslim-friendly travel is essential.
SALAAM 2026 is the third Halal Tourism and Trade Expo open yesterday, June 19. The event showcases the best Muslim products and services in the Philippines. The event is open to the public until Sunday, June 21.
