Local businesses and public advocates are pushing to establish Cagayan de Oro as a regional Halal hub, coinciding with this year’s “Oro Best Expo.”

During the event launch on Tuesday, Avalyn Cahulogan, president of the Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation Inc. (Oro Chamber), highlighted halal’s economic potential for the city.

Northern Mindanao is also supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s socioeconomic agenda, including a halal strategic plan aimed at doubling output domestically and internationally by 2028.

“With halal, we’re tapping into a robust and expanding market,” Cahulogan said, adding that halal compliance ensures food safety by avoiding cross-contamination with non-permissible items, particularly pork.

Cahulogan said local business groups can contribute to halal industry growth by enhancing infrastructure, fostering cross-regional partnerships, and advocating for government support in certification processes.

Meanwhile, Department of Trade and Industry Undersecretary Blesila Lantayona noted the Halal industry’s promise for Northern Mindanao, with government and private sector partnerships setting a strong foundation for growth across Asia-Pacific.

Lantayona pointed out that CDO serves as a strategic location, due to its active local economy and proximity to Muslim-majority communities.

Iligan City and Cagayan de Oro’s local governments are backing the Oro Best Expo, a regional highlight being celebrated for 17 years now.

It is the flagship event of the Oro Chamber, aimed to address the concerns of the region’s micro, small, and medium enterprises. (PNA)