A delegation of Philippine representatives, including officials from the finance, tourism, and food industries, arrived in Riyadh for the Saudi International Halal Expo, the Middle East’s largest halal exhibition, running from October 28 to 30. The Philippine Embassy in Riyadh welcomed the delegation, which is led by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and includes key figures like Philippine Halal Export Board’s DA Undersecretary Zamzamin Lumenda Ampatuan, DBM Director Akmad Usman, and DTI Halal Industry Development Office Director Aleem Guiapal.
Also present were delegates from the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and the Philippine-Saudi Business Council.
This marks the Philippines’ debut at the Saudi Halal Expo, a milestone for the country’s “Halal-Friendly Philippines” campaign, which promotes halal-certified products and services across multiple sectors. With a growing halal market in Asia-Pacific, the Philippines aims to attract $4 billion in investments and generate 120,000 jobs by 2028.
Philippine exhibitors at the expo showcase a range of products, from food and beverages to supplements, wellness items, and construction services. Notably, agricultural exports such as coconut oil, fresh fruits, and nutraceutical foods are key offerings, reflecting the country’s diverse resources and commitment to the halal sector. Guiapal emphasized the unique strengths of Philippine agricultural products, which align with the preferences of the global halal market.
Expanding its halal tourism portfolio has been another strategic move for the Philippines as it seeks to revive the sector post-pandemic. The Department of Tourism has developed more halal-friendly accommodations, positioning the Philippines as an attractive destination for Muslim travelers.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), represented by officer Winnie Claire Jamoner-Carbonel, is also present at the expo, aiming to attract Islamic banks and promote Islamic banking services in the Philippines. The growing demand for halal-certified financial services presents new opportunities for both Philippine and international investors in the banking sector.
The Saudi Halal Expo provides the Philippine delegation with a unique platform to connect with global stakeholders, as the country seeks to build partnerships and enhance its presence in the multi-trillion-dollar halal market. Through its participation, the Philippines reinforces its commitment to becoming a regional hub for halal-certified products and services, contributing to sustainable economic growth and job creation.
