The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially opened the first Muslim-friendly cove in Boracay on Tuesday, September 10, as part of efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive tourism in the Philippines.
In collaboration with the local government unit of Malay and Megaworld Hotels and Resorts, the DOT unveiled the 850-square-meter Marhaba Cove, located at the private beach of Boracay Newcoast. The project is inspired by similar Muslim-friendly beach concepts from the Maldives and Thailand.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted that the Marhaba Cove, specifically designed for Muslim travelers, is the first of its kind in the Philippines. The initiative takes into account Islamic laws and feedback from Muslim visitors.
The DOT also emphasized that 54% of international arrivals in 2023 were from predominantly Muslim countries, underscoring the importance of fostering inclusivity. In addition to Marhaba Cove, the DOT is working on accrediting more Muslim-friendly establishments, with 289 accommodation venues and 237 restaurants certified nationwide by December 2023.