DTI Philippines Launches ‘Halal-Friendly Bicol’ Initiative to Boost Tourism and Business

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Bicol is embarking on an exciting new initiative aimed at transforming the region into a premier destination for halal products and services. Dubbed “Halal-Friendly Bicol,” this ambitious project seeks to attract more tourists from Muslim-majority countries and create new business opportunities for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Unveiling the Halal-Friendly Bicol Initiative

On Wednesday, the launch of the “Halal-Friendly Bicol Region” initiative was held at the Pepperland Hotel, marking the beginning of an important journey for the region. DTI-5 Regional Director Dindo Nabol, who spearheaded the event, emphasized the potential benefits of promoting halal-certified products and services across the six provinces of Bicol. The initiative is designed to boost the region’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors by ensuring that halal options are widely available.

“We’re thrilled to unveil the ‘Halal-Friendly Bicol’ initiative,” said Nabol. “Our goal is to set the stage for a new wave of tourism and business opportunities by integrating halal practices into various sectors. This launch is just the start, and we have ambitious plans for the future.”

Halal-Friendly Bicol Initiative: Key Features

The “Halal-Friendly Bicol” initiative involves several key components aimed at enhancing the region’s halal offerings:

1. Training and Certification: The DTI will roll out a series of training programs designed to help at least 20 MSME owners in Bicol obtain halal certification. These training sessions will cover various aspects of halal practices, including food preparation, handling, and hygiene standards. By equipping local businesses with the knowledge and certification needed to offer halal products, the DTI aims to expand the region’s market reach and cater to a growing customer base.
2. Restaurant Certification: Recognizing the challenge that Muslim travelers often face in finding halal dining options, the initiative encourages local restaurants to obtain halal certification. This move is expected to make Bicol a more attractive destination for Muslim tourists and enhance the overall dining experience for visitors.
3. Collaboration with Halal Certifying Bodies: To ensure the highest standards of halal certification, the DTI has partnered with Prime Group, a reputable UAE-based halal certifying body. This collaboration involves sample product testing and certification processes to guarantee that local products meet international halal standards. By working with Prime Group, Bicol aims to build credibility and trust in its halal offerings.
4. Promotional Activities: The initiative includes a comprehensive promotional strategy to raise awareness about halal-friendly products and services in Bicol. This will involve marketing campaigns, events, and partnerships with tourism agencies to showcase the region’s halal offerings to a broader audience.

Expanding Halal Certification to Restaurants and Beyond

A significant focus of the “Halal-Friendly Bicol” initiative is on expanding halal certification to restaurants. DTI-5 Regional Director Dindo Nabol highlighted a common issue faced by Muslim travelers—finding halal dining options. By encouraging local restaurants to get halal certified, the initiative aims to address this gap and enhance the region’s appeal as a halal-friendly destination.

“The challenge for many Muslim visitors is locating restaurants that offer halal food,” Nabol explained. “We are actively encouraging tourism-related establishments to pursue halal certification to better serve this market segment. This will not only cater to Muslim tourists but also enrich the dining experience for all visitors.”

Understanding Halal and Its Broader Appeal

The term “halal” refers to practices and products that are permissible under Islamic law. While halal is primarily associated with Muslim dietary needs, the principles of halal—emphasizing cleanliness, safety, and ethical standards—have universal appeal. Nabol emphasized that the benefits of halal certification extend beyond the Muslim community.

“Halal is not just for Muslims; it’s for everyone in Bicol and beyond,” Nabol said. “When we talk about halal, we are talking about food prepared in a proper, clean, and respectful manner. This ensures that the food is safe and of high quality. By promoting these values, we aim to attract a diverse range of consumers and showcase the high standards of our local products.”

The initiative highlights how halal-friendly products and services can meet high standards of hygiene and quality, benefiting a broader audience. By integrating halal principles into local businesses, Bicol is positioning itself as a region committed to excellence and inclusivity.

Collaborating with Global Halal Certifying Bodies

To ensure that Bicol’s halal offerings meet international standards, the DTI is collaborating with Prime Group, a prominent halal certifying body based in the United Arab Emirates. This partnership involves rigorous testing and certification processes to ensure that local products adhere to global halal standards.

“Partnering with Prime Group is a crucial step in establishing Bicol as a trusted source for halal products,” Nabol said. “Their expertise and certification will help us maintain high standards and build credibility in the global halal market.”

Impact of Halal-Friendly Bicol

The “Halal-Friendly Bicol” initiative represents a significant opportunity for the region to diversify its tourism offerings and stimulate economic growth. By integrating halal practices into local businesses, Bicol aims to attract a wider audience, including international tourists and local consumers interested in high-quality, ethically prepared products.

The initiative is expected to create new business opportunities, foster community engagement, and enhance the overall appeal of Bicol as a tourist destination. As the project progresses, residents and visitors can look forward to a growing selection of halal-certified options across various sectors.

As Bicol embraces its new role as a halal-friendly destination, the potential for growth and development is substantial. The “Halal-Friendly Bicol” initiative sets the stage for a thriving halal industry in the region, with benefits extending to businesses, consumers, and the local economy.

For MSMEs, restaurant owners, and tourists, this initiative offers a unique opportunity to participate in a transformative project that enhances the region’s reputation and celebrates cultural diversity. As Bicol continues to develop its halal-friendly offerings, it will undoubtedly attract attention and acclaim from across the globe.

The launch of the “Halal-Friendly Bicol” initiative marks a pivotal moment for the region, setting the stage for significant growth in both tourism and business. By focusing on halal certification and promoting inclusive practices, Bicol is poised to become a leading destination for halal products and services.

For businesses and tourists alike, this initiative represents a chance to be part of a forward-thinking project that enriches the local economy and enhances the visitor experience. As Bicol embraces its new identity as a halal-friendly region, it will continue to make strides in becoming a global leader in halal tourism and business.