Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar Mardomel Celo Melicor, called on Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco on Tuesday, 06 May 2025, at the DOT Central Office in Makati City.

During the meeting, Secretary Frasco and Ambassador Melicor discussed strengthening tourism cooperation between the Philippines and Qatar. They explored strategic opportunities to promote the Philippines’ diverse tourism destinations and offerings.

Secretary Frasco expressed strong optimism over the deepening relationship between the Philippines and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, recognizing it as one of the country’s promising source markets for international visitors. She highlighted the DOT’s proactive initiatives aimed at positioning the Philippines as a preferred destination for Muslim travelers, including conversion of select hotels and resorts into Halal-certified and Muslim-friendly accommodations, the launch of the dedicated “Marhaba Cove” in Boracay, recognizing Halal-compliant restaurants, and specialized training programs for tourism frontliners to ensure culturally sensitive and high-quality service for Muslim guests.

Ambassador Melicor, for his part, shared that the Philippine Embassy in Qatar remains active in promoting the Philippines as a premier travel destination. He also emphasized the strong potential for the Philippines and Qatar to become strategic partners in broader investment opportunities and tourism cooperation.

In 2024, tourist arrivals from Qatar reached 21,005, reflecting the Philippines’ growing appeal as a leisure destination for Qatari travelers.

Joining Secretary Frasco during the meeting were DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Verna Buensuceso, and Rica Bueno, as well as Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, Head Executive Assistant Frances Villarino and Atty. Zachary Selma, among others. (Department of Tourism)