Department of Trade and Industry Halal Industry Development Program Manager Aleem Guiapal met with the Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) Maguindanao, led by Provincial Director Romeo Diocolano, to encourage their active participation in the Halal Friendly Philippines national brand campaign.
Guiapal emphasized the importance of showcasing Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) products at international expos to elevate the region’s global presence in the halal market.
Guiapal’s call to action came during the 3rd Bangsamoro Agri-Fishery Halal Congress, a priority initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR) BARMM under the leadership of Minister Dr. Mohammad S. Yacob.
The congress aims to enhance the agri-fishery value chain and position BARMM as a key player in the global halal food industry.
The opening ceremony saw Guiapal joined by Engr. Saidona Lawan, MAFAR’s focal person on Halal Program and Development, and Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Zamzamin L. Ampatuan. Together, they highlighted the role of collaboration in achieving sustainable growth in BARMM’s halal sector.
Guiapal encouraged MTIT Maguindanao to leverage international platforms like the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS), Saudi Halal Expo, and Abu Dhabi International Food Expo.
“These opportunities allow us to showcase the unique agri-products of BARMM, create new markets, and generate economic benefits for our local farmers and entrepreneurs,” Guiapal said.
He stressed that integrating BARMM’s halal initiatives into the Halal Friendly Philippines campaign aligns with the broader goal of economic inclusivity and development, particularly for marginalized communities in the region.
The congress also focused on partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, aiming to strengthen BARMM’s position in the global halal market and further advance the region’s socio-economic development.
