Empowering MSMEs and Showcasing the Country’s Diverse Halal Potential to the World
Davao City will once again take center stage in promoting inclusive economic growth as it hosts the Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo (PHTTE) from June 18 to 20, 2025, at the SMX Convention Center, SM Lanang. The three-day event promises a comprehensive showcase of Halal-certified and Halal-friendly products from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the Philippines.
An accredited subevent of Duaw Davao, one of the city’s major annual festivities, the PHTTE highlights the rapid growth and potential of the Halal industry, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, the academe, entrepreneurs, and consumers.
This year’s theme, “Showcasing Diverse Halal, Halal-Ready, and Friendly Markets of All Regions to the International Arena,” underscores the event’s mission to elevate Filipino-made Halal goods and services to a global platform.
“Ang tumong gyud is matabangan ang MSMEs to position in the Halal market,”
(“The main goal is to help MSMEs position themselves in the Halal market,”)
– Marilou Ampuan, Founding President of the Philippine Halal Advocacy Corporation
Speaking during the I-Speak Media Forum, Ampuan announced the three flagship components of the expo:
1. Halal Trade Fair
A vibrant display of Halal-certified food, cosmetics, garments, and travel products from MSMEs nationwide. This provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to reach new customers and markets.
2. Free Halal Medical Services
In partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), the expo will offer free medical consultations and basic medicines through a pharmaceutical sponsor. This initiative ensures that Halal principles extend to healthcare access, reflecting the event’s inclusive advocacy.
3. Halal Global Academic Forum
Co-hosted by University of the Immaculate Conception (UIC) and Holy Cross of Davao College (HCDC), in collaboration with Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), the forum seeks to deepen awareness and scholarship on Halal practices through interactive sessions, youth presentations, and innovation pitches.
“The forum will be conducted to raise awareness in our academe about Halal,” Ampuan emphasized, highlighting the role of education in fostering a culturally inclusive Halal ecosystem.
A Business Networking Session will kick off on Day 1, aimed at connecting MSMEs with potential investors and partners. Ampuan encouraged local enterprises to seize the opportunity to tap into the US$7.2 trillion global Halal market, not just regionally but also at the national and international level.
Davao City, already known for its pioneering Halal ordinances and its own Halal-certified slaughterhouse, continues to bolster its identity as a Halal hub in the Philippines. The city also boasts several Halal-accredited establishments and has received regional and national recognition for its sustained efforts in promoting the Halal industry.
As preparations for the event continue, Dabawenyos and interested participants are encouraged to follow updates via the official Facebook page:
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/PHTTE
The Philippine Halal Trade and Tourism Expo 2025 is not just a celebration of culture and commerce—it’s a platform for empowerment, inclusion, and global engagement.