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Megaworld Hotels & Resorts leads the way for Muslim tourism in the Philippines
Embracing a new standard on Muslim hospitality, Megaworld Hotels & Resorts (MHR) stands tall as the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT)’s leading partner when it comes to promoting the country to Muslim tourists. As of press time, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia continue to be MHR’s largest Muslim source markets, as these collectively contributed to a 40 percent increase in Muslim stays and a 58 percent growth in revenue from January to March 2024. Since the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on 6th May 2024 at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, MHR has taken the lead in supporting Muslim tourism growth across its 13 hotels certified as Muslim-friendly by DOT. According to MHR managing director Cleofe Abiso: "The milestones we have achieved in Muslim-friendly hospitality would not have been possible without the invaluable partnerships we have built with the Department of Tourism, local governments, and our certification bodies like the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines. Together, we share a common vision of positioning the Philippines as a welcoming and inclusive destination for Muslim travelers.” Abiso added that working in tandem with such partners has enabled MHR to set new standards in the Philippine hospitality sector. She said: From being the first hotel group to achieve 100% Muslim-Friendly Accommodation accreditation to pioneering projects like Marhaba Boracay. At Megaworld Hotels & Resorts, we believe that when the public and private sectors collaborate with sincerity and purpose, we can truly transform the Philippine tourism landscape for the better.” One with emergent trends The rising demand is reflected in broader national tourism trends. According to the DOT, the Philippines recorded 630,000 Muslim visitor arrivals in 2024, marking a 23 percent increase compared to 2023. Malaysia remains the top source of Muslim tourists, with many visitors traveling in large family groups year-round. This proves that the Muslim market is growing with its total population expected to reach 2.3 billion by 2030. Heartfelt service centred on diversity and inclusivity MHR is proudly known for its Sampaguita brand of heartfelt Filipino service, creating a journey with the five senses for the guest and showcasing the values deeply-rooted in Filipino culture, such as love, honour, dignity, and healing, which the company instills in every aspect of its operations. MHR is also the first and largest Filipino hotel chain to achieve 100 percent accreditation as a Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Establishment (MFAE) across all its properties, as recognized by the DOT. In addition, the group recognizes the significance of Halal dining and ensures that its kitchens at Kingsford Hotel Manila, Grand Westside Hotel, Savoy Hotel Boracay, Savoy Hotel Mactan Newtown, and Belmont Hotel Mactan are Halal-certified by the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines (HICCIP). Further expanding its initiatives, MHR in partnership with the DOT and the local government of Malay, Aklan, launched Marhaba Boracay last 10th September. This project transformed a portion of the pristine 300-meter white sand beach at Cove 2 in Boracay Newcoast into a dedicated Muslim-friendly zone. The area features family-friendly amenities and private spaces designed especially for Muslim women and children. As more Muslim travelers discover the beauty of the Philippines, MMHR aims to stay true to its promise of creating heartfelt, meaningful experiences with the Sampaguita.
DOT partners with Emirates to promote the Philippines
Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso (left; seated) and Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East Mr. Orhan Abbas (right; seated) signs the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the Philippines as a premier tourist destination. At the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday (Apr. 28), the DOT and Emirates Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to promote the Philippines as a premier destination and drive growth of arrivals of travelers in the country. Promoting Phillippines to Middle East travellers “The collaboration of the Department of Tourism with Emirates is a vital step in establishing the Philippines as a premier leisure gateway for travellers from the Middle East and Europe, not to mention provide additional air seats and options for the Filipino diaspora in this part of the world who wish to go back and visit our country,” said Philippine Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who stood as witness to the signing of the MOU signed by Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso of the DOT, and Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East. Under the memorandum, the DOT and Emirates will come up with plans that would “promote the Philippines in Middle East, Mediterranean, and European markets.” Increasing Connectivity The two agencies will also “co-promote each other's projects and programs through media platforms to ensure wide reach and engagement,” with Emirates “promoting the Philippines throughout Emirates’ network.” In addition, they will “jointly explore and implement activities to develop and promote tourism in the Philippines, using Emirates’ services for mutual benefit,” as well as “work on expanding flight routes and frequencies to key destinations in coordination with other government agencies and relevant sectors.” “By creating a strategic framework for joint marketing and advertising initiatives, we aim to significantly boost visitor traffic from Emirates' extensive global network. This collaboration between the Department of Tourism and Emirates not only strengthens our tourism sector but also fosters deeper cultural ties between our regions,” enthused the Tourism Chief. For his part, Abbas said Emirates’ partnership with the DOT proved the capability of the Philippines to attract more travellers from across the globe. He said, “Emirates began serving the Philippines nearly 35 years ago, making it one of the longest-served destinations across our entire global network. Our continued partnership reflects the strength and popularity of this Southeast Asian destination - not only for leisure travellers but also businesses and entrepreneurs.” Dubai-based Emirates is the world’s largest international airline. Its global network spans 140 destinations across six continents. The airline serves the Philippines with 28 weekly flights to Manila, Cebu, and Clark, equivalent to 22,700 weekly seats to and from Dubai. It also launched in November 2024 its Emirates World retail store concept in Manila, “introducing a fully immersive experience for Filipino customers,” according to the airline. As of April 28, 2025, the Philippines received a total of 21,576 travellers from the UAE, according to statistics from the DOT’s Statistics, Economic Analysis, and Information Management Division.
Philippines to begin issuing digital nomad visas
Philippine President Ferdinand R Marcos Jnr signed an executive order authorising the issuance of digital nomad visas on Thursday, 24th April. Executive Order No 86 gives the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to issue digital nomad visas to non-immigrant foreigners who wish to visit the Philippines whilst working remotely. This initiative seeks to drive spending on the part of foreign travellers to the country and to boost tourism activities throughout off-peak seasons. Tourism secretary Christina Frasco lauded the move, referring to it as a progressive policy reflecting the national government’s strong commitment to boost the country’s tourism landscape via innovation. In a statement released on Friday, 25th April, Frasco declared: “Allowing digital nomads the opportunity to stay longer in the country will spur tourism activities and increase visitor spending. Not only do digital nomads help mitigate seasonal fluctuations in tourism by visiting during off-peak times and providing a more steady economic flow, but these types of international visitors also bring diverse perspectives and cultures, enriching our host communities." Where nomads wander Among the Philippines’ most popular workation destinations in the country are Boracay, Siargao, Cebu, Palawan, and La Union, all of which have great appeal among both backpackers and digital nomads alike. Frasco said: “The digital nomad visa will not only strengthen the growth of established destinations, but also unlock new opportunities for even the most remote tourist sites and local government units to shine on the global stage." She added that her department stands ready to work hand in hand with the DFA, the Department of Justice, Bureau of Immigration, Bureau of Internal Revenue, and all other concerned agencies to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of the new initiative. Frasco further pointed out that such measures for future-ready tourism are bound to uplift local communities via meaningful livelihood for residents. Once the initiative is implemented, the Philippines joins Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia among the regional hubs for digital nomads. What travellers need to know Foreigners eligible for this type of visa must be: At least 18 years old; Must show proof of remote work using digital technology; Must show proof of sufficient income generated outside the Philippines; Must show proof of no criminal record; Must have health insurance valid for the period covering the validity of the visa; Must be a national of a country that already offers similar visas to Filipinos and where the Philippines has a Foreign Service Post; Must not pose a threat to the internal or external security of the Philippines; and Must not be employed in the Philippines. Pilot implementation of the digital nomad visa programme begins within 60 days from the time the Executive Order takes effect. Foreigners who qualify for the program may stay in the country for a maximum of one year. Also, the visa may be renewed for the same duration and the holder may be granted multiple entry privileges during its validity.
Philippines reelected vice-president of UN Tourism General Assembly
The Philippines was reelected vice-president of the 26th General Assembly of the United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism) and chair of the Commission for East Asia and the Pacific (CAP) from 2025 to 2027. The country’s Department of Tourism (DOT) made the announcement on the evening of Tuesday, 15th April. At a press conference on the sidelines of the 56th Meeting of the UN Tourism CAP in Jakarta, Indonesia, DOT secretary Christina Frasco thanked the member states of the UN Tourism, saying Manila would push for stronger collaboration within the UN body. Thanks to its reelection, the Philippines will continue to honour its commitment to global tourism cooperation and diplomacy. The Philippines held the same positions after its election at the 55th Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for East Asia and the Pacific in Cambodia in 2023. In 2024, the country successfully hosted the 36th CAP - Commission for South Asia and the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum for Gastronomy Tourism, bringing together more than 600 delegates from more than 40 countries in Cebu. Japan and Fiji have submitted their candidacies as vice chairs of the CAP. Meanwhile, Laos has been nominated as a member of the Credentials Committee. For specialised committees, South Korea has been nominated for the Committee on Tourism Online Education. In alignment with institutional foci Frasco said the Philippine tourism agenda remains well-aligned with that of the UN Tourism, especially on improving tourism education and maximizing innovation and digitalization in the sector. She said: “In the Philippines, these are topics that resonate very well with us, especially that our focus is on the development of quality tourism, to prioritize our stakeholders first and foremost that they're able to benefit from the touristic activities that are conducted upon our shores.” Frasco added that the Philippines is eager to work together with its regional neighbours to ensure that all are able to bring regional tourism to its fullest potential, whilst sustaining the longevity of key destinations for generations to come. For his part, UN Tourism secretary-general Zurab Pololikashvili commended the Philippines for its continued leadership in regional tourism while citing the country’s successful hosting of the UN meetings last year. The secretary-general underscored that the main objective now should be to invest in job creation and education. Pololikashvili likewise reaffirmed UN Tourism’s commitment to establishing a Tourism Academy in Cebu.
Philippines saw less tourists in Q1-2025
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) reported that the number of foreign arrivals dropped by around 0.51 percent as of 31st March. There was a significant decline in arrivals from key markets, particularly China and South Korea. South Korea remains the Philippines’ largest tourism source market with 395,059 arrivals in the first quarter of this year though the figure is 13.9 percent lower than it was in the same period in 2024. The United States and Japan came in second and third with 285,597 and 125,083 arrivals respectively. Declining numbers Meanwhile, arrivals from the Chinese Mainland continue to decline and the country itself is now but the sixth largest source market. Chinese arrivals in Q1-2025 dropped by 33.7 percent, totalling around 72,665. Nevertheless, the DOT reports significant year-on-year growth among arrivals from Australia, Canada, and Singapore. The department has set itself an ambitious target of 8.4 million foreign arrivals for 2025, 55 percent higher than its target last year.
Birdwatching hailed as a fresh attraction for the northern Philippines
The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) has teamed up with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to promote more birdwatching activities in the Northern Philippines. For both agencies, the act of birdwatching goes beyond leisure as it serves to boost awareness regarding environmental conservation and offers measures for sustainable livelihood for citizens in the Ilocos Region The departments held their initial joint birdwatching caravan from 4th to 9th April, bringing along around 30 professional and amateur birders, photographers, and enthusiasts to the north. Participants documented several avian species in their natural habitat throughout the nearly week-long event. DENR officials also pointed out that, beyond the Ilocos Region, the Philippines has 117 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) covering 32,302 square km. that act as a refuge for as many as 115 globally-threatened species of water birds. A prime centre for birdwatching Based on the annual Asian Waterbird Census, the legendary Paoay Lake Natural Park in the Ilocos Region has provided shelter to numerous bird species. Among those resident in the region are the Little Grebe, Great Egret, Little Egret, Cattle Egret, Philippine Duck, Tufted Duck, White-browed Crake, Common Kingfisher, White-collared Kingfisher, White-throated Kingfisher, and the Great Cormorant. Birders who visited the Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park likewise reported at least 18 bird species, among which were endemic birds like the Common Emerald Dove, Green Imperial Pigeon, Turtle Dove, Scops Owl, Rufous Hornbill, Philippine Forest Kingfisher, Coleto, Woodpecker, Hanging Parakeet, Quail, Labuyo or wild chicken, Brahminy Kite, Tarictic Hornbill, Serpent Eagle, Philippine Hawk Eagle, and Little Crow.
Philippines gets seven nominations for World Travel Awards 2025
The Philippines received nominations in seven prime categories for this year’s run of the World Travel Awards. In a statement released on Wednesday, 9th April, the country’s Department of Tourism (DOT) announced the nominations to rally public support for the global online voting. The DOT hopes that public support will enable the Philippines to maintain its status as one of Asia’s best at WTA 2025. The department itself is in the running to become Asia’s Leading Tourism Board. The Philippines has held the title of Asia’s Leading Dive Destinations since 2019, and Boracay was likewise named Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination in the same year. Campaigning to stay on top For 2025, the country is defending its titles in the Asia’s Leading Beach Destination, Asia’s Leading Dive Destination, and Asia’s Leading Island Destination categories. At the same time, several prime Philippine tourist destinations were nominated in the following categories: Boracay yet again as Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination; Intramuros as Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction; and Cebu as Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination. According to tourism secretary Christina Frasco, the nominations are the result of the DOT’s sustained efforts in terms of promoting the country on a global scale. She said: “They all reaffirm our steadfast commitment to carry out initiatives with sustainability and inclusivity in mind in order to establish the Philippines as a leading tourism powerhouse in Asia.” Nominations are determined by industry professionals, while winners are selected through an open voting process that includes both travel experts and the general public. Online voting began on 1st April and will continue until 31st August.
Hilton Garden Inn brand to make its debut in the Philippines
Global hospitality firm Hilton announced the signing of two new hotels in the Philippines on Monday, 7th April, signifying the ongoing expansion of its focused service presence in Southeast Asia. Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City and Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan also mark the debut of the award-winning Hilton Garden Inn brand in the Philippines, making it Hilton’s third brand in the country and expanding its portfolio from three to five properties. According to Hilton’s vice-president for development in Southeast Asia Maria Ariizumi: “The Philippines is a strong focus for Hilton, as we see the massive long term tourism potential for the country. As markets across the Philippines continue to develop, Hilton Garden Inn is the perfect product for owners and travelers, offering just the right level of comfort and service. Anchored by Metro Manila and Cebu, we are thrilled to launch Hilton Garden Inn in the country with our new owners, and we see this as just the beginning of our exciting focused service growth story in the market.” The two new hotels come in the wake of other recent additions; namely Hilton Garden Inn Hoi An Tra Que Village, Hilton Garden Inn Kota Kinabalu, and Hilton Garden Inn Bali Nusa Dua. Indeed, the Hilton Garden Inn brand is driving its presence in the region to keep up with the growing demand for affordable, upscale accommodations. Hilton also plans to more than triple its focused service footprint in Southeast Asia in the coming years, increasing the number of Hilton Garden Inn properties and other mid-market branded hotels, from 12 to 40. At present, Hilton operates 102 properties in Southeast Asia and is on track to expand its portfolio by more than 50 per cent in the coming years. Two distinctive properties Located within Quezon City’s Central Business District in the northern part of the Philippine capital, Hilton Garden Inn Manila Quezon City will be the brand's first property within the National Capital Region. Part of a mixed-use complex, guests will enjoy access to a diverse selection of amenities just steps away from the hotel. The property also features 210 well-appointed guest rooms and suites starting from 24 square meters, elevated food and beverage experiences at its all-day dining restaurant, over 450 square meters of flexible meetings and events spaces, as well as other modern facilities including an outdoor pool and fitness center. The hotel’s prime location offers business and leisure travelers convenient access to the Metro Manila Mass Transit System and nearby attractions, including the Smart Araneta Coliseum, a sprawling multi-purpose venue for major concerts, events and shows. Meanwhile, the Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan marks the brand’s debut in the country’s oldest city. The 151-room hotel will be part of a mixed-use complex, offering guests access to a variety of retail and entertainment options. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s spacious guest rooms, which start at 26 square meters, or at the fitness center and an outdoor swimming pool. Hilton Garden Inn Cebu Mactan also houses an all-day dining restaurant and bar, and versatile event spaces of up to 350 square meters, ideal for hosting business meetings and social gatherings. According to Sherwin Uy, chief executive of developmental partner Primeworld Land Holdings Inc: “Cebu’s vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty and thriving economy has made it a sought-after destination for travelers from around the world. Partnering with Hilton reflects our commitment to developing Cebu’s tourism industry and elevating the guest experience through upscale focused service offerings.”
AirAsia Philippines forward bookings for April/May hit 500K
With the vacation season coming up in the Philippines, AirAsia Philippines reports that it has received more than 500,000 forward bookings for April and May. In the same statement released on Monday, 31st March, the low-cost airline also announced that Boracay was the top destination among the domestic routes booked by passengers. The airline also noted a significant increase in demand for Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan, and Tagbilaran. In terms of global routes, the most popular bookings were for Taiwan and Japan. Seats up for grabs With the Holy Week and summer holidays coming up, AirAsia Philippines also announced a seat sale which kicked off on the 31st and will run until Sunday, 6th April. Fares can go as low as PHP 44 each on over 400,000 seats and may be booked for trips flying between 31st March and 30th September 2025. According to airline spokesperson Steve Dailisan: "Coupled with a lower fuel surcharge cost for the month of April, there’s no stopping from making that memorable trip, affordable and within reach.”
The Philippines hailed Routes Asia 2025 Destination of the Year
The Philippines has been hailed Destination of the Year at the Routes Asia 2025 Awards recently held in Perth, Australia. The Destination of the Year Award was personally received by DOT assistant secretary Judilyn Quiachon, director Warner Andrada, and Philippine tourism attaché for Australia and New Zealand Purificacion Suanding-Molintas. Tourism secretary Christina Frasco said: “These awards are a testament to the strength of our partnerships with different stakeholders in the aviation and travel industry, our unwavering focus on connectivity, and our collective vision of positioning the Philippines as a premier global destination.” The country’s recognition as Destination of the Year Winner underscores its Department of Tourism (DOT)’s strong leadership in expanding the Philippines’ air connectivity through strategic marketing, robust industry collaboration, and sustainable tourism initiatives. The Routes Asia Awards celebrate excellence in air service development and marketing across the Asia-Pacific region. Recognized as the most valuable awards in the route development community, these awards highlight collaboration between airlines, airports, and tourism authorities. A campaign that keeps on winning Launched in 2023, the Department’s flagship campaign Love the Philippines fuelled traveller demand by highlighting the country’s diverse biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, and emerging destinations. These efforts are in keeping with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028, which outlines enhanced connectivity as a strategic objective to improve access and inclusivity in Philippine tourism. As of 28th February, 46 new domestic and 47 international routes are in operation, improving access to destinations such as Siargao, Batanes, Panglao, and Coron, among others.
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