Boracay prepares for Muslim-friendly set up with exclusive coves

FILE / Ernesto CRUZ / AFP

BORACAY — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is set to reintroduce this island as a more Muslim-friendly destination to entice more foreign Muslim travelers.

Mayor Floribar Bautista of Malay, Aklan said three potential areas on Boracay could be developed as private coves exclusively for Muslim women “since they are not allowed to swim with others.”

These secluded areas, he said, would provide a comfortable and private space for them to enjoy.

The initiative, in partnership with the local government of Malay, Aklan, will be officially launched in September this year.

In addition to private coves, the island’s port will be redesigned to include a prayer room and an ablution area, an important part of ritual purity in Islam, to cater to Muslim visitors.

The DOT is also accepting applications from Boracay accommodation establishments to be recognized as Muslim-friendly stays.

In 2023, Aklan province, where Boracay Island is located, had 2.2 million arrivals which gave the government P44.43 billion in total revenues.

Optimism

Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, DOT Undersecretary for Muslim Affairs, expressed optimism about the project.

She highlighted ongoing efforts to encourage hotels, such as those in Megaworld’s Newcoast development, to add Halal-certified kitchens.

This initiative aligns with Megaworld’s vision, with properties like the Belmont and Savoy hotels on Boracay’s Newcoast set to enhance their Muslim-friendly services.

The comprehensive plan includes collaboration with airlines for Halal-friendly services, ensuring a seamless experience for Muslim tourists from arrival to departure.

Halal is an Arabic word that means “allowed” or “lawful.”

“Everything corresponds to each other. There will be private coves for Muslims, then (a) hotel that has a Halal kitchen, and then there’s another airline that wants to partner with DOT also for Halal-friendly airline,” Abubakar said.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco initially announced the Muslim-Friendly Boracay initiative at the Salaam 2024: Travel and Trade Expo in Quezon City on June 14.

This initiative is part of the DOT’s broader strategy to promote inclusive tourism and make Boracay a preferred destination for Muslim travelers.