(L-R) Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Executive Assistant Akhzanuniza Alonto, Development Management Officer Amhed Jeoffrey Datukan, and Tourism industry player Margarita Montemayor share updates on the Halal industry initiatives in Mindanao. (PNA photo by Lilian C Mellejor)
DAVAO CITY – Seeing the potential of Mindanao as a Halal production hub in the Philippines, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) said it will push for an island-wide approach that will maximize opportunities for local businesses.
Amhed Jeoffrey Datukan, MinDa management officer, said Wednesday the agency is eyeing the creation of the Mindanao Halal Council to chart an industry roadmap to take advantage of the estimated USD3-trillion Halal industry.
Datukan said Mindanao has the biggest potential being home to the majority of Muslims in the Philippines and the country’s food basket.
Datukan, however, said this initiative needs the involvement of local government units that will assist MinDA in identifying potential areas of investments in their respective areas.
In Mindanao, only Davao City has its own Davao City Halal Industry Development Council. Datukan said it is working closely with the city government to convert the executive order that created the council to an ordinance.
He said MinDA will also work with Cagayan de Oro, Zamboanga and the other cities and municipalities for the creation of their own local Halal councils.
MinDA has been actively participating in investment mission, trade and exhibits to explore the Halal market abroad.
On April 3 to 6, Mindanao businessmen will participate in the 16th Malaysia International Halal Showcase at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Center in Kuala Lumpur.
Datukan said Mindanao has been given 13 slots for local traders to showcase their products and services.
He said MinDA is also tapping the small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) who are active in Muslim-friendly services and production of products to penetrate the export market. (PNA)
