Makati City – In an effort to promote halal tourism, the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) is inviting both Muslim and non-Muslim visitors to explore Mindanao and its diverse culinary offerings. This initiative is part of the country's broader strategy to position Mindanao as a key culinary destination in Asia.
According to Philippines News Agency, During the event "Bismillah: An Evening of Faith, Love, and the Flavors of Mindanao" held at Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City, the DOT gathered embassy representatives, including ambassadors from Malaysia, Brunei, Pakistan, Egypt, the Netherlands, and Russia. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted the event as a launchpad for showcasing Mindanao's gastronomic delights. She compared Mindanao's cuisine with that of Southeast Asian neighbors like Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and southern Thailand, emphasizing the region's cultural links with these countries. The event featured dishes prepared by Chefs Datu Shariff Pendatun, Miguel Cabel Moreno, and Jam Melchor, including specialties like scallop and sea urchin kinilaw, Pisawawan a Sapi from Lanao, Piyanggang Manuk from Sulu, and Dinilutan a Seda from Maguindanao.
Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino bin Anthony praised the flavors of Mindanao and pointed out its potential to attract Malaysian tourists, especially for halal tourism. He noted the absence of a travel advisory against Mindanao in Malaysia and recognized the region's safety for visitors. Castelino emphasized the similarities in food and culture between Mindanao and Malaysia, which could draw Malaysian tourists. The Pakistani Ambassador also expressed appreciation for the halal cuisine and the potential for growing the halal industry in the Philippines.
Netherlands Ambassador to the Philippines Marielle Geraedts shared her positive experience of the event on social media, encouraging travel to Mindanao. DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar mentioned that Mindanao has been preparing to welcome tourists for a long time, targeting not only Muslim-dominated countries but also the over six million Muslim Filipinos nationwide. However, air connectivity remains an issue that needs addressing.
Tourism Secretary Frasco acknowledged ongoing talks with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to encourage nations to reconsider their security alert levels for Mindanao. She expressed hope that the peace and order situation in Mindanao and its readiness for tourism would be communicated effectively to other countries, leading to updated travel advisories. The DOT also assures that security remains a foundational aspect of Mindanao tourism development, as reflected in its agreements with the Department of National Defense and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.