CEBU Gov. Pamela Baricuatro is looking into developing the halal tourism industry, especially halal food, in the province. This initiative is part of efforts to diversify Cebu’s tourism offerings and attract more international visitors.
Baricuatro shared these plans during a media briefing on Thursday, July 24, 2025, following the successful hosting of the East Asia Tourism Forum (Eatof) and a board meeting of Mactan-Cebu International Airport in Cebu City.
The governor said that the Province sees an opportunity to tap into the growing halal tourism market, particularly with the increasing demand from Muslim travelers.
“One of the things we were talking about is halal tourism,” she said.
After the 18 percent drop in South Korean arrivals in Cebu, as revealed by Provincial Administrator Joseph “Ace” Durano, Baricuatro emphasized that, aside from other tourism markets, she wants to strengthen halal tourism, especially halal food, which Cebu has least explored.
The multi-day forum brought together delegates from East Asian countries, the United States and local tourism stakeholders to discuss sustainable and community-based tourism. Among the highlights was the recognition of the Bojo River in Aloguinsan in southwestern Cebu, as a model for ecotourism and grassroots-led tourism development.
Baricuatro praised the forum’s success, saying it provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and future collaborations in tourism. She added that Cebu is ready to mentor and collaborate with other regions in promoting tourism that empowers local communities and protects both cultural and natural heritage.
The Bojo River Cruise, operated by the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association, was cited during the forum for its award-winning environmental conservation efforts and impact on local livelihoods. / CDF