The Philippine government is ramping up efforts to position the Bicol region as a key player in the global Halal industry, with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) leading strategic initiatives to unlock economic opportunities. During a recent meeting with Muslim leaders and stakeholders, officials outlined plans to enhance Halal certification, infrastructure, and market access, tapping into the sector’s USD 7.7 trillion potential.
DTI Assistant Secretary Englebert Josef G. Chua reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through Halal-focused programs, including marketing campaigns and capacity-building initiatives. The plan spans all six Bicol provinces—Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Sorsogon, and Catanduanes—with an emphasis on Islamic banking, food security, and sustainable growth.
The DTI’s Halal Project Management Office presented a detailed roadmap aimed at developing Halal-certified businesses and improving infrastructure to meet international standards. Program Manager Dimnatang M. Radia stressed the importance of collaboration between local governments, private enterprises, and certifying bodies to establish Bicol as a competitive Halal hub.
Muslim leaders welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism about its potential to boost local economies and create new opportunities. “This partnership with the DTI gives us confidence that our businesses can thrive on a global scale,” one community representative remarked. The meeting concluded with a call for unified action among stakeholders to build a resilient and inclusive Halal ecosystem.