The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) reaffirmed its commitment to elevating micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Zamboanga by harnessing the immense potential of the Halal industry.
DTI Secretary Alfredo Pascual, through his chief of staff Ana Carolina Sanchez, outlined a comprehensive strategy to harness the region’s vast potential and capitalize on the global Halal market during the Bagong Pilipinas Town Hall held in Zamboanga City.
“The DTI is committed to our vision: a globally competitive Philippines that is the preferred trading partner and investment destination––fueled by diversified industries, innovation-driven enterprises, empowered consumers, and high-quality job opportunities for all Filipinos,” said Pascual.
The DTI’s comprehensive strategy to empower and strengthen Halal MSMEs involves forming strategic partnerships, ensuring diverse product offerings, expanding market reach and conducting capacity building trainings to support marginalized communities.
Themed “Halal Industry: Boosting Economic Development in Mindanao,” the town hall showcased the strategic importance of the Halal industry in catalyzing economic growth, job creation, and poverty alleviation in Mindanao.
“With the lobal Halal market currently presenting a trillion-dollar opportunity, our vision is to create a robust ecosystem for investment, certification, and training. These untapped potentials can generate PHP 120 million in investments, 120,000 jobs, and a 20 percent increase in Halal exports of products and services within the next four to five years” Pascual said.
Zamboanga City and its surrounding regions, renowned for their rich cultural heritage and historical significance, are poised to become significant players in the trillion-dollar global Halal market.
Key highlights of the event included the relaunch of the Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan and discussions on the need for an Executive Order to further institutionalize support for the Halal industry.
The town hall also featured the recognition of 13 Halal-certified establishments and the awarding of outstanding MSMEs and development partners.
Sanchez also led the launch of a Shared Service Facility (SSF) project to enhance the jewelry fabrication laboratory.
The event brought together diverse stakeholders from government agencies, local government units, the private sector, and civil society—all united in their commitment to driving the Halal industry’s growth.
Aligned with the DTI’s goal of empowering enterprises and entrepreneurs, the event showcased the Department’s commitment to fostering a robust domestic market and propelling businesses into the global market.
