The Department of Tourism asked vloggers to post more about the tourist sites in Mindanao as the agency is promoting the Philippines as a Muslim-friendly tourist destination.

During the Laging Handa press briefing, DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar said Mindanao is home to many undiscovered tourist sites, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao provinces of Basilan and Tawi-Tawi.

"There are so many beautiful and undiscovered tourist sites in Mindanao, and we want to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to experience them," Abubakar said.

"We're also working with local governments in Mindanao to prepare their tourist sites for Muslim visitors," the Tourism Undersecretary added.

Abubakar said DOT is also working to develop other major gateways to the Philippines, such as Cebu and Clark, to become more Muslim-friendly.

These include ensuring that airports have prayer rooms and malls have at least one halal-certified restaurant.

The Tourism Undersecretary said the Philippines is home to a sizable Muslim population, with approximately 15 million Muslim Filipinos residing in the country.

Hence, Abubakar emphasized the potential of catering to this demographic, making it easier for them to explore their own country and contribute to the local tourism industry.

Furthermore, the Philippines aims to tap into international markets, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei Darussalam, by participating in regional tourism initiatives like the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area).

However, she stressed the need to enhance the country's infrastructure and services to realize this potential fully.

She said that the DOT has also issued a memorandum circular that outlines the guidelines for accommodation establishments that want to be recognized as Muslim-friendly.

With a wealth of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and an increasing focus on catering to Muslim tourists, DOT said the Philippines is positioning itself as a prime destination for travelers seeking a Muslim-friendly experience.