Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the Philippines’ commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia during the “60 Years of Malaysia-Philippines Relations: Deepening Cooperation in a Dynamic World” forum held on December 5 at the University of the Philippines Diliman.
The event, organized by the Malaysian Embassy in Manila and led by Ambassador Dato Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, celebrated six decades of bilateral relations. In his opening remarks, Ambassador Castelino emphasized the enduring partnership between the two nations, citing “collaborative endeavors, cultural exchange, mutual respect, and love” as the foundation of their ties.
Ambassador Castelino underscored the growing cooperation in tourism, particularly in halal tourism, crediting Secretary Frasco’s leadership for the Philippines’ progress in the sector. “Tourism, especially halal tourism, is attributable to how the Philippines has achieved tremendous [achievement] again by the visionary leader, Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco of the DOT,” he said. He also reaffirmed Malaysia’s support for the Philippines’ efforts to develop a robust halal economic and tourism system.
The Ambassador congratulated the Philippines on being named the World’s Leading Dive Destination 2024 by the World Travel Awards. Sharing his personal experience at the Philippine Dive Experience event, he noted the potential for further tourism collaborations between Malaysia and the Philippines, bolstered by the Philippines’ recent recognitions in the global tourism industry.
Frasco was joined by other dignitaries, including Brunei Darussalam Ambassador Megawati Dato Paduka Haji Manan, OPAPRU Undersecretary Isidro L. Purisima, UP Diliman Vice President Daniel Peckley, Jr., and UP Asian Center Dean Dr. Noel Christian A. Moratilla.
The forum also gathered members of the diplomatic community, government officials, academia, and media to discuss the opportunities for deeper cooperation in a dynamic global landscape.
The event showcased the shared commitment of Malaysia and the Philippines to fostering stronger ties through trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges, paving the way for a more collaborative future.
