Philippines Promotes Mindanaos Halal Cuisine to International Markets
The Philippine government is intensifying efforts to showcase Mindanao's rich halal culinary heritage to the global audience. On November 21, 2023, the Department of Tourism (DOT) hosted an event titled "Bismillah: An Evening of Faith, Love, and the Flavors of Mindanao" at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City. This gathering aimed to introduce foreign diplomats and potential tourists to the diverse and authentic flavors of Mindanao, positioning the region as a burgeoning culinary destination in Asia.
Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized that the initiative serves as a launchpad for foreign tourists to recognize Mindanao's potential. She highlighted the region's cultural ties with neighboring Southeast Asian countries, noting that Mindanao's cuisine stands on par with that of Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and southern Thailand. The event featured a curated menu prepared by renowned chefs, including Datu Shariff Pendatun, Miguel Cabel Moreno, and Jam Melchor. Dishes such as scallop and sea urchin kinilaw, Lanao’s Pisawawan a Sapi, Sulu’s Piyanggang Manuk, and Maguindanao’s Dinilutan a Seda were presented, offering attendees an authentic taste of Mindanao's culinary traditions.
The event garnered positive feedback from international attendees. Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dato' Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino bin Anthony, praised the flavors of Mindanao and acknowledged the region's safety for tourists. He expressed optimism about Mindanao's potential to become a significant destination for halal tourism, citing cultural and culinary similarities that would appeal to Malaysian visitors. Similarly, Pakistan Ambassador Imtiaz Ahmad Kazi was impressed by the variety and authenticity of the halal offerings, recognizing the Philippines' potential in the growing halal industry.
The DOT is targeting tourists from Muslim-majority countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and nations in the Middle East, while also appealing to the over six million Muslim Filipinos domestically. Efforts are underway to improve air connectivity and address travel advisories to facilitate tourism growth in Mindanao. Frasco assured that security remains a priority, with collaborations between the DOT, the Department of National Defense, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government to ensure the safety and readiness of Mindanao for tourism development.
This initiative reflects the Philippine government's commitment to diversifying its tourism portfolio by integrating cultural and culinary experiences, thereby attracting a broader spectrum of international tourists and promoting regional development.
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