Stakeholders from the national government, the United Nations, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) gathered at Pagana Kutawato, Cotabato City, for the 3rd Bangsamoro Agri-Fishery Halal Congress from December 8 to 12, 2024. Themed “Enhancing the Agri-Fishery Value Chain: Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Halal Food Industry Development,” the event highlighted initiatives and opportunities to bolster the region’s halal agri-fishery sector.
Participating delegations from Tawi-Tawi, Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur, Sulu, Basilan, Cotabato City, and Marawi City were encouraged to develop and enhance local agri-products that could be showcased on international stages, including the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025, the Saudi Halal Expo, and the Abu Dhabi International Food Expo.
DTI Halal Industry Development Program Manager Aleem Guiapal underscored the vital role of the halal industry in supporting local economies, particularly in BARMM. He emphasized the importance of integrating local efforts into the global halal value chain under the Halal Friendly Philippines national brand campaign.
“Ang programa ng pamahalaan, ng ating pangulo President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., sa Halal industry development ay hindi lamang naglalayon ma-enhance ang economic growth ng bansa, kundi higit rito ang pagsulong at inclusive growth ng ating local na ekonomiya, lalo na po ng Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” said Guiapal.
Guiapal highlighted that the government’s efforts have already yielded tangible results. As of now, over Php 8 billion in revenue sales have been generated, contributing to the national roadmap target of Php 230 billion in trade revenue and investment, along with 120,000 jobs.
Earlier in the event, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and BARMM’s Ministry of Trade, Investments, and Tourism (MTIT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further promote halal industry development and ensure alignment with the national roadmap.
Guiapal reiterated that every trade deal and revenue generated through international expos benefits the country’s farmers, workers, MSMEs, industries, and entrepreneurs, further strengthening the country’s position in the global halal market.
