Davao City is taking significant strides in advancing its Halal industry as the Davao City Halal Industry Development Council held its first regular meeting on February 24, 2025, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod Building. The meeting, led by Council Chairperson Atty. Jonah Presto and Vice Chairperson Ms. Marilou W. Ampuan, marked a crucial step in formulating policies and programs to promote Halal trade, tourism, and investment in the city.
Among the key discussions during the meeting was the progress of the draft Ordinance for the Halal Industry, which aims to establish clear guidelines and regulations to support Halal businesses. Additionally, the Council deliberated on upcoming initiatives such as the 10th Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo and the Iftar Distribution Program, which are expected to bolster awareness and participation in the Halal sector. The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos also shared its initiatives toward making Davao a more Muslim-friendly destination.
One of the meeting’s highlights was the proposal to develop a roadmap for the Halal Industry Development Council. This roadmap, modeled after the Department of Trade and Industry’s four-year Philippine Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan, is envisioned to serve as a blueprint for strengthening Davao’s status as a key Halal hub. By establishing concrete policies and programs, the city aims to create a thriving Halal ecosystem that fosters economic growth and inclusivity.
With these efforts, Davao City reaffirms its commitment to positioning itself as a premier destination for Halal tourism and trade, ensuring that its policies align with both national and international standards. As the Council moves forward with its initiatives, stakeholders in the Halal industry can look forward to a more structured and supportive environment for growth and development.