Officials from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) have deepened their expertise in the halal industry by participating in the Saudi International Halal Expo 2024 in Riyadh. Marjanie S. Mimbantas Macasalong, Chair of the Bangsamoro Parliament’s Committee on Trade, Investment, and Tourism, said the delegation engaged with international leaders and explored best practices in the global halal sector.
Macasalong highlighted the value of attending the expo, especially with several halal-related legislations currently referred to their committee.
“Attending the Saudi International Halal Expo 2024 has been an incredibly valuable experience,” he said. “Engaging with global industry leaders and learning about international best practices is truly advantageous as we work to support the Bangsamoro region’s halal sector.”
Joining Macasalong were fellow Bangsamoro Members of Parliament (MPs) Matarul Estino, Prof. Eddie Alih, Abdullah Hashim, Amroussi Macatanong, Atty. Paisalin Tago, Jamel Macacua, Ubaida Pacasem, and Bangsamoro Board of Investments (BBOI) Chairperson Omar Pasigan. Together, they represented the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region with a shared commitment to fostering economic growth and trade opportunities in the halal sector.
“We’re grateful to the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Halal Industry Development Office, the Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia, and the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) in the Middle East for facilitating this mission,” Macasalong added. “Their support has been instrumental in ensuring that we gain valuable insights that will strengthen the halal sector back home.”
The expo provided BARMM’s representatives with a comprehensive view of international trends and innovations in the halal market, spanning from food production to finance, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. By connecting with key stakeholders in the industry, BARMM officials aim to translate these insights into legislative and economic initiatives that will address the needs of Bangsamoro communities and position the region as a strong player in the global halal market.
