BUTUAN CITY — Three Halal-certified food and beverage manufacturing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from Agusan del Sur took center stage at the 1st Caraga Halal Summit, held on October 7, 2026, at Hotel Oazis in Butuan City. The summit served as a strategic platform for these enterprises to promote their products, connect with potential buyers, and demonstrate the growing capacity of Agusan del Sur's local food industry to meet Halal standards. Their participation reflects the broader push to strengthen the Halal ecosystem in the Caraga region and position local MSMEs in the expanding domestic and global Halal market.
Building on a Strong Foundation of Halal Certification
The participation of these three Agusan del Sur MSMEs at the Caraga Halal Summit builds on significant strides made in the region's Halal sector. In February 2026, nine MSMEs from the Caraga region, including four from Agusan del Norte, secured certification under the Department of Trade and Industry's Halal Industry Development and Promotion Project (HIDPP). The certifications, valid for three years, were granted by the Halal International Chamber of Commerce and Industries of the Philippines, Inc., confirming compliance with established Halal standards on quality, safety, and ethical production. This momentum has continued through 2026, with the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in Caraga convening forums and initiatives aimed at empowering Muslim Filipino entrepreneurs and expanding the region's Halal offerings.
Why the Halal Market Matters for Caraga MSMEs
The Halal market represents a significant economic opportunity for Filipino MSMEs. DTI Agusan del Norte Provincial Director Lorijane D. Sacote has emphasized that "Halal certification is not only a seal of quality and safety, but a strategic pathway for MSMEs to access both domestic and international markets, particularly the global Halal economy". With the global Halal market projected to reach trillions of dollars, Halal-certified products from Caraga are well-positioned to tap into this growing demand. The 1st Caraga Halal Summit provides a vital venue for MSMEs to network, showcase their products, and explore partnerships that can help them scale their operations and reach new markets.
A Collaborative Effort for Inclusive Growth
The summit reflects the collective effort of government agencies, industry stakeholders, and local enterprises to build a robust Halal industry in Caraga. The DTI, through the HIDPP, continues to provide technical assistance, certification support, and market linkage programs for MSMEs seeking to become Halal-compliant. Meanwhile, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in the Caraga Region has been actively promoting the welfare of Muslim Filipinos and advocating for initiatives such as a Halal Lane Ordinance in Butuan City. For the three Agusan del Sur MSMEs, their participation in the summit is a step toward greater visibility, market access, and sustainable growth in the Halal economy.
