Philippines set to open beach dedicated to Muslims this month
The Philippines, in a move to respect and accommodate diverse beliefs, is set to open a private beach on Boracay Island — dedicated to Muslim travellers — on September 10, according to the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT).
The private cove, designed specifically for Muslim women, will be located within the Boracay Newcoast in the northeastern part of the world-renowned island.
The area will also include the Savoy Hotel, which recently earned a Halal kitchen certification.
“Some Muslims can swim in public, but others prefer swimming in this private area. I’m sure those Muslims swimming in public, if they’ve a choice, would also prefer that because at present they don’t have a choice,” said DOT Undersecretary for Muslim Affairs Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, as quoted by the Philippines News Agency.
“President Bongbong Marcos mentioned during the State of the Nation Address about halal and Islamic tradition, so we’re pushing for that. The Secretary is also pushing for more Halal offerings that we can do in the Philippines,” she added.
Recognized as an Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination for two consecutive years, the Philippines welcomed over three million international visitors in the first half of 2024.
The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts that the country’s travel and tourism sector will contribute $91.8bn to the national economy in 2024.
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