Bahrain and Pakistan Miss Universes Promote Tourism in Philippines

With much of the Philippines’ economy dependent on tourism, Miss Universes of Bahrain and Pakistan have joined forces to promote halal travel to the Southeast Asian country. Manila is targeting tourists from countries in the Middle East.

Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, Tourism Undersecretary, said the Department of Tourism is taking advantage of the presence of the Miss Universes from Bahrain and Pakistan to help and assist in promoting Muslim-friendly and halal tourism in the Philippines.

Miss Universes Big Boost

She highlighted the Miss Universes’ trip to the Philippines as a big boost for the country. “It would hopefully influence the global Muslim community to visit the archipelago nation, which is home to white sand beaches, famous diving spots, lively entertainment, diverse cultural heritage and distinctive wildlife.”

In 2022, the Philippines government announced plans to boost foreign arrivals from the Middle East and Muslim-majority nations. The Muslim travel market is expected to reach $225 billion by 2028. The Philippines is set to attract its fair share, welcoming 4.8 million foreign arrivals for 2023, having already seen 4 million visitors so far.

Miss Universe Bahrain Loves Philippines Diversity

Lujane Yacoub, Miss Universe Bahrain, has been in the Philippines with Miss Universe Pakistan Erica Robin since Friday. They are in the country as part of their training for Miss Universe 2023 in El Salvador, set for November.

Miss Universe Bahrain highlighted the Philippines amazing diversity in striving to welcome in many different places and even Muslim countries. “It’s just an amazing place to be. I encourage anyone from Bahrain to come and visit the Philippines. It is gorgeous with its beaches and its diving spots, and its rich, rich culture. The Philippines has amazing hospitality and it’s so welcoming.”

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Miss Universe Pakistan feels honored to help promote the Philippines. “The Philippines already feels like home. And we still have a lot to explore, a lot to learn, a lot to share with the world what the Philippines has to offer.” Robin said she is blessed to promote something that needs to be out for people to know. She is sure that every Muslim country would love to explore the Philippines.