24/08/2026
Mobilizing the Region 1 Halal Ecosystem to its optimal potential!
The Region 1 Halal Technical Working Group (R1 Halal TWG) convened for its 2nd Semester Meeting CY 2026 and Capacity Development on August 19 β 20, 2026 at the J&V Resort and Hotel, Sevilla City of San Fernando, La Union, with 13 TWG members and a total of 51 participants present during the 2-day activity, which was sponsored by the Department of Agriculture - Regional Field Office 1 (DA-RFO1).
In her opening remarks, Regional Director Merlie D. Membrere of the Department of Trade and Industry β Regional Office 1 (DTI-RO1) and the Chairperson of the R1 Halal TWG emphasized the important role of the TWG members in advisory and in empowering local entrepreneurs to innovate, scale, and gain access to high-value markets both locally and abroad. She also encouraged everyone to participate actively, share insights openly, and approach the sessions with a shared vision of transforming Region 1 into a premier Halal-friendly hub.
The 2nd Semester R1 Halal TWG Meeting focused on strengthening stakeholder coordination and identifying strategies to further improve programs, services, and interventions to develop the Halal Industry in the region. Discussions covered the status of the Region 1 Halal Industry Development Strategic Plan 2025β2028, market opportunities for Halal products, international standards and export readiness, and the fundamental processes and requirements for Halal agriculture and tourism.
As part of the capacity development component, participants gained broader and more practical knowledge of the Halal Certification process and requirements through discussions with Halal Certifying Bodies (HCBs) and existing Halal-certified establishments. The activity also featured the sharing of best practices in Halal certification for hotel accommodation and food service/restaurant establishments, providing valuable insights that participants can apply in supporting MSMEs and strengthening the regionβs Halal ecosystem.
Atty. Raihanah Sarah T. Macarimpas, the Regional Director of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos β North Luzon (NCMF-North Luzon) as well as the Vice-Chairperson of the R1 Halal TWG, addressed the Halal-Ready and Halal-Certified MSMEs and FCAs present during the activity in her closing remarks, encouraging them to be patient in their Halal journey, hoping that they would not be discouraged but be challenged instead. She ensured the continuous support of the NCMF and the R1 Halal TWG in achieving their goals and expectations.
