The Department of the Interior and Local Government–National Capital Region (DILG-NCR) has taken a leading role in promoting the development of the Halal industry, encouraging local government units (LGUs) across Metro Manila to establish mechanisms that will strengthen Halal initiatives at the local level.

During the Halal Industry Development Council (HIDC) Advocacy Forum held last March 27, 2026 at the Bellevue Manila in the City of Muntinlupa, DILG-NCR Regional Director Maria Lourdes L. Agustin, CESO III, highlighted the importance of local leadership in building an inclusive and sustainable Halal economy. She called on LGUs to organize local councils that can spearhead programs supporting both industry growth and Muslim Filipino communities.

Director Agustin stressed that collaboration among LGUs, national agencies, and stakeholders is key to unlocking opportunities in the Halal sector. She noted that with coordinated efforts, the industry can contribute not only to economic expansion but also to cultural understanding and social inclusion.

The advocacy forum was spearheaded by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos–National Capital Region (NCMF-NCR), under the leadership of Regional Director Dimapuno A. Datu Ramos Jr., M.D., CESE. Held on March 27, 2026, at The Bellevue Manila in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, the activity brought together government officials and stakeholders to discuss strategies for strengthening Halal industry development.

With the theme “Building Bridges for Halal Industry Growth: Empowering LGUs to Empower Muslim Filipino Communities,” the forum focused on enhancing cooperation between LGUs and Muslim Filipino communities, recognizing their vital role in shaping inclusive economic progress.

Key national officials also shared messages of support, including NCMF Executive Director Tahir S. Lidasan, CESO II, and BMEA Director IV Saleha P. Sacar, JD, DPA, both of whom underscored the importance of sustained advocacy and institutional support for the Halal sector.

To provide direction for implementation, Fatimah F. Datu-Ramos, M.D., FPOGS, presented the HIDC framework, outlining how LGUs can establish structures and programs aligned with Halal industry goals.

Meanwhile, the Department of Tourism (DOT), through Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, presented initiatives designed to make tourism more inclusive, including Halal-oriented programs and travel content tailored for Muslim Filipinos and related stakeholders.

Practical insights were also shared by Parañaque City Councilor Shannin Mae Olivares-Bernardo, who discussed her city’s experience in setting up a local Halal Industry Development Council. Her presentation offered valuable lessons for other LGUs seeking to adopt similar approaches.

An open forum, facilitated by Datu Abdul Hakeem A. Lomondot and Atty. Jamael Batugan Jr., concluded the event, providing participants with the opportunity to raise questions and exchange ideas on strengthening Halal initiatives in the region.

Through its continued leadership and advocacy, DILG-NCR remains committed to empowering LGUs and fostering partnerships that will advance a more inclusive and culturally responsive Halal industry in the National Capital Region.