Boracay to launch exclusive muslim-friendly beach on Sept. 10

Boracay will soon offer a special beach dedicated to Muslim travelers as part of its efforts to become a more inclusive destination, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The private cove, located within the Boracay Newcoast, is set to officially open on September 10, providing a secluded area specifically for Muslim women.

DOT Undersecretary for Muslim Affairs Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar shared that this initiative was prompted by suggestions from foreign diplomats in the Philippines, including ambassadors from Malaysia and Brunei. The diplomats had expressed the need for a private area where Muslim women could enjoy the beach in accordance with their cultural and religious practices.

Valderrosa-Abubakar explained that while some Muslim women do swim in public areas, many would prefer a more private setting if given the choice. "At present, they don’t have a choice," she said, adding that the mayor of Aklan, in coordination with Megaworld, identified the northeastern coast of Boracay Newcoast as a suitable location for the private cove.

The Boracay Newcoast, which also houses the Savoy Hotel—a recently certified Halal kitchen—will now include this exclusive beach, further enhancing the island's appeal to Muslim tourists. The move aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s emphasis on promoting Halal and Islamic traditions, as mentioned in his State of the Nation Address.

Making the Philippines more Muslim-friendly is a key focus of the DOT's National Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2028.

Alongside the creation of new destinations, the DOT is also working to improve training for frontline tourism workers, utilizing Halal modules developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that it will help transform the Philippines into one of the most competitive Halal and Muslim-friendly destinations.

The country has already been recognized as an Emerging Muslim-Friendly Destination (non-OIC country) by the Mastercard-CrescentRating Global Muslim Travel Index for two consecutive years.