The Philippines is making a concerted push to attract visitors from Qatar by promoting its diverse tourism portfolio, with a special emphasis on halal and Muslim-friendly travel, at the Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025. The unified national presence at the event, which runs until 24 November at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, signals a broader strategy to deepen economic and cultural ties between the two nations.
A Focus on Muslim-Friendly Tourism
Department of Tourism (DoT) Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar stated that the country’s participation reflects a keen interest in showcasing its readiness to welcome Muslim travellers. The initiative is a partnership between the DoT and the Embassy of the Philippines in Qatar.
“Our participation in the event reflects the Department of Tourism’s keenness to not only promote the Philippines as a tourism destination but also to include halal tourism and Muslim-friendly tourism as our offering to the people of Qatar,” Valderrosa-Abubakar explained.
Highlighting Regional Attractions
Beyond national-level promotion, provincial leaders are highlighting unique regional destinations. Misamis Occidental Governor Henry S. Oaminal emphasised the natural attractions of Northern Mindanao as a key draw for international visitors. He pointed to development initiatives in both mountain and coastal areas.
“We have a beach resort that is multi-inspired because it has an ocean villa presentation and dolphin islands nearby,” Oaminal said. He added that tourism promotion is being strategically linked with trade and agriculture to strengthen ties with Qatar, suggesting that inbound missions from Doha could be matched by outbound delegations from his province.
Strengthening Business and Investment Links
Parallel to the tourism drive, the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) is actively engaging with Qatari counterparts to build robust business relationships. PCCI President Enunina V. Mangio is leading a delegation of 40 people representing approximately 30 companies from sectors including real estate, construction, water technology, and labour.
“We’re bringing a group of individuals who are all engaged in different sectors, and we will try to match them with their counterparts in Qatar,” Mangio said. She noted that the PCCI is focused on sharing best practices, technology transfer, and facilitating partnerships and investment exchange, seeing tourism as a gateway to wider trade. The goal is to establish a strategic platform connecting the GCC with Eurasia through targeted business efforts.
High-Level Meetings in Doha
The PCCI delegation has scheduled a series of high-level meetings to formalise cooperation. A key discussion on networking and mutual relations is planned with officials from the Qatar Chamber. Further meetings are expected with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the Qatar Investment Authority, and various tourism authorities. Mangio stressed that the PCCI will highlight the important role that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and regional provinces play in strengthening Qatar-Philippines investment ties.
This multi-pronged approach demonstrates a clear commitment from the Philippines to move beyond traditional tourism promotion. By integrating trade, investment, and regional development into its outreach, the country aims to build a comprehensive and lasting partnership with Qatar.
