VIVA – The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country because of its history under the rule of Spain which brought the Catholic faith to its shores. However, it doesn’t mean the Muslim travelers cannot visit this country. There are some halal-friendly tourisms, places of worship, and halal food that can be enjoyed safely.
Muslim travelers also can enjoy all the beauty of the Philippines, such as nature tourism (mountain, beach, sea, museum, and others). So, here are some of the best destinations for Muslim travelers in the Philippines.
7. Pampanga
Mol di Filipina
Pampanga is known for its delicious and unique Kampangan dishes featured in many Pampanga restaurants. Muslim travelers looking for halal restaurants in Pampanga won’t have a hard time finding one as there are many in the province.
Some of the halal restaurants you can choose from are Ali Al Kabab Halal Food Restaurant in San Fernando, Red Sea Bar & Restaurant in Angeles City, and Zarina Halal Food Restaurant, a halal restaurant in Clark Pampanga that serves Filipino, Arabic, Indian, and other Asian cuisines.
Pampanga also has some natural tourist such as Pinatubo Mountain, Arayat Mountain, and Miyamit Waterfall.
6. Boracay
Boracay and its White Beach are two of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, and Muslim visitors can enjoy the islands, beaches, and other Boracay tourist attractions. The island is home to several halal-friendly establishments, including about a dozen halal-friendly Boracay restaurants.
For those in search of Muslim-friendly Boracay hotels and resorts, such as Shangri La’s Boracay Resort and Spa, that served halal food and prayer mats can be provided by the hotel upon request.
5. Palawan
Palawan, Philipina
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Palawan becomes one of the favorite tourists. It is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Puerto Princesa Underground River in Puerto Princesa, Kayangan Lake in Coron, Nacpan Beach in El Nido, Long Beach in San Vicente, countless lagoons, paradise-like beaches and islands, and other Palawan tourist attractions.
Those looking for a halal trip will appreciate the variety of halal food in Palawan. If you want to try halal food in Coron, head to the Muslim Restaurant in Coron town proper. Those staying in Puerto Princesa can try Taste of Indian Spices, which serves Indian, Malaysian, and Filipino food that is halal.
4. Cotabato City
When visiting Cotabato City, Muslim travelers must visit the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mosque. Also known as the Grand Mosque of Cotabato, it can accommodate up to 15,000 worshippers and is one of the largest mosques in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
If you’re looking for halal food in the Philippines, a visit to Cotabato City won’t disappoint as there are several halal restaurants here, including Hassaraff Seafoods and Grill, Mama Ping, Hashy’s Cuisine, and Picante, Pizza, Pasta & More.
3. Metro Manila
Metro Manila is a melting pot of culture and religion in the Philippines, and visitors won’t find it difficult to have a halal vacation here. For Muslim travelers who looking for halal-friendly hotels in Manila to stay in will have options, including Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay, Dusit Thani Manila in Makati, and Marco Polo Ortigas Manila in Pasig. Aside from offering guests halal food, the rooms of these hotels are also marked with a prayer direction.
2. Cebu
This island has many beaches, natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and urban sights. When visiting there don't forget to visit Cebu's most visited tourist attractions such as Waterfall Area, Bantayan Island, Sumilon Island, Malapascua Island, Osmeña Peak, and Magellan's Cross.
Although Cebu residents are mostly Catholic, you can still find mosques there. The Cebu City Green Mosque is a mosque that has a green accent, which makes it stand out in the middle of the city.
There are several halal food options in Cebu restaurants, namely Persian Palate, Shawarma Gourmet, Persian Kebab Tandoori, and House of Punjab Albarkah.
1. Davao City
Davao City and its local government have been pushing for the city to become more halal-friendly, and their efforts have paid off, as they have become the most Muslim-friendly destination in the Philippines.
Apart from having the Davao International Airport that allows Muslims from other countries to travel direct to the city, they also have the Davao City Halal Council, which helps establishments become halal compliant.
