It is important to note that access to financial resources and the development of potential play a significant role in shaping the competitiveness of the Philippines in the global arena of the halal economy. The initiative is focused on supporting MSMEs and aligns with the vision of the Minister of Trade and Industry, Maria Kristina N. C. Roces, who emphasized: "By supporting MSMEs, we create jobs, empower communities and industries, stimulating progress in our country."
At the forum, program manager Dimnatang Radiya from the Office for Project Management in the halal production sector outlined key objectives, supporting the integrated approach of the Department of Trade and Industry in supporting small enterprises in the halal sector. In this regard, a supplementary virtual forum will be held, which will detail the certification process for halal production and the requirements for compliance.
At the closing of the event, Amielin Limbo expressed convincing views, emphasizing the critical role of MSMEs in the development of the halal industry in the Philippines. The forum confirmed the readiness of the Department of Trade and Industry to support MSMEs in the halal sector through cooperation, provision of financial and market resources, and the development of capabilities.
The event is aimed at providing micro, small and medium enterprises of halal finance support for scaling up businesses and competitiveness in the growing halal industry. In his welcoming remarks, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Engr. Bulaklakan, emphasized a strategic plan for the halal industry for the period 2023-2028, which aims to achieve a trading and investment volume of 320 billion Philippine pesos and create 120,000 jobs.
The forum highlighted valuable ideas from SB Corporation President, Robert Bastillo, who presented innovative financial solutions for MSMEs, and DKP Co. President Fulfilment, Inka Antonio Intala, who discussed strategies for financing, market-oriented supply chain optimization for halal product distribution.
Participants from various sectors and regions of the Philippines attended the virtual forum supporting microenterprises in the halal production sector, organized by the Department of Trade and Industry through its Office for Project Management in the halal production sector (HPMO). Support includes training from the Philippine Trade Training Center (PTTC), financial assistance from the Small Business Corporation (SB Corp.), business registration, capacity building, financing, market access, and halal certification for expanding opportunities in domestic and international markets.
Forum participants expressed gratitude for the launch of a unified system of MSME support in the halal industry. Their contributions enriched MSMEs with information on accessing financing, improving business processes, and developing in domestic and international markets. Public discussion was moderated by Princess Habiba Sarip from the Presidential Management Staff on operations in the field of communications.
Thanks to close cooperation between the government and private sectors of the Philippines, they are ready to become a leading trading, investment and innovation hub in the halal production industry in the Asia-Pacific region.
