Cebu City, Philippines – Gullas College of Medicine (GCM) representatives led by Ms. Kathreena Pillai, deputy chief executive consultant, and Dr. Felisse Marianne Z. San Juan and Mr. Aldren H. Hila, from the Internationalization and Strategic Communications Office, attended the 2nd Halal and Muslim-Friendly Tourism Forum at Seda Hotel, Cebu City, July 16. 

The forum, co-organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Global Tourism Business Association Inc. (GTBA), aimed to position the Philippines as a premier Muslim-friendly destination. A significant highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and GTBA President Michelle Taylan, emphasizing a shared commitment to expanding Halal tourism nationwide.

Distinguished attendees included ambassadors from Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, Taiwan, Israel, Cambodia, and Laos, reflecting the forum's international significance. Secretary Frasco, in her keynote address, invoked the spirit of Lapu-Lapu, emphasizing unity and hope as core values in promoting inclusive tourism. 

GCM's participation underscores its commitment to integrating cultural competence into medical education. Understanding the nuances of Halal tourism and Muslim-friendly practices equips future healthcare professionals with the knowledge to cater to diverse patient needs, especially in the context of medical tourism. As Cebu positions itself as a hub for Halal tourism, GCM can play a pivotal role in ensuring that medical services align with the cultural and religious preferences of Muslim patients, enhancing patient satisfaction and care outcomes.