The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 is collaborating with the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to promote tourism in the region. DOT-10 Regional Director Marie Elaine Unchuan stated that the Colors of Mindanao campaign aims to showcase the unique culture, food, and sites of the entire island, including the Bangsamoro region. Unchuan stressed that the region plays a crucial role in the campaign, and the DOT-10 is committed to involving the region in its initiatives.
Unchuan also highlighted the importance of Halal certification in attracting Muslim tourists to the region. The DOT-10 is encouraging hotels and restaurants to obtain Halal certification or Muslim-friendly seals to cater to the Muslim market. Unchuan emphasized that the Bangsamoro region could serve as an excellent resource for the initiative, given the region’s expertise on the matter.
In terms of promoting tourism in the region, Unchuan invited visitors from other localities to visit and explore the region’s various tour packages, such as sun and beach, culinary, eco, nature-based, and sports tourism. She also emphasized the role of local government units in establishing tourism products in the Bangsamoro region and the province.
The Lanao del Sur province, in particular, has many potential tourism products, such as cultural villages, faith tourism, and Maranao cuisines. However, it requires proper guidance and packaging to entice tourists to visit the region.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT)-Lanao del Sur Senior Tourism Operations Officer Prince Shoudery Galo highlighted the region’s efforts to promote Halal tourism, with the support of neighboring regions such as Region 10. Galo emphasized the benefits of Halal tourism, such as a big market and strengthening religious beliefs and practices. He also underlined the importance of preserving cultural products and sharing the skills of artisans to the younger generation.
Overall, the collaboration between the DOT-10 and the Bangsamoro region is a positive step towards promoting tourism in the region. By showcasing its unique culture, food, and sites and catering to the Muslim market, the region can attract more visitors and boost its tourism industry.