This event, aimed at showcasing Iran’s capacities in the halal industry and promoting bilateral cooperation, was held on Monday, May 26, 2025 (5 Khordad 1404) at the Opera Hotel Convention Center in Manila. The gathering featured the presence of academic, cultural, religious leaders, and halal industry entrepreneurs.

Held from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the event attracted several distinguished figures. Mr. Richard Anthony L. Cruz, President of the Global Advanced Management Network of UNAP, expressed gratitude to all participants and stated:

“This program stands as an outstanding example of peaceful coexistence between our Christian and Muslim brothers and sisters—especially in the context of halal food. In our country, we need access to nutritious, affordable, and inclusive food.”

He then invited Mr. Abolghasemi, Cultural Counselor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, to deliver his speech.

In his remarks, after praising God and greeting the cultural, religious, and halal industry participants, Mr. Abolghasemi stated:

“First and foremost, I would like to sincerely thank the United Nations Association of the Philippines (UNAP) for their valuable initiative in organizing this cultural event titled‘Empowering Local Governments on Halal Culture for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises’, and for kindly inviting me to attend and speak at this seminar.”

He went on to emphasize that halal culture, beyond being a religious lifestyle, has now evolved into a global standard:

“Today, the global halal market—valued at over $7 trillion—offers unique opportunities for countries like the Philippines to accelerate economic growth and job creation by tapping into this vibrant sector.

Halal culture is not limited to religious obligations. It has grown into a lifestyle, an ethical system, and a major economic opportunity on the global stage. In a world where the halal market continues to expand, promoting this culture can serve as a foundation for sustainable business development, particularly at the local government level.”

He added:

“Governments play a key role in fostering and institutionalizing halal culture. By building proper infrastructure, offering specialized training, and supporting entrepreneurs, they can create the conditions necessary for the growth of halal businesses. Such efforts can significantly improve livelihoods and raise the quality of life across various cultural and economic dimensions.”

The Cultural Counselor noted:

“As a Muslim nation with an ancient civilization, rich culinary diversity, and advanced industries, the Islamic Republic of Iran holds valuable experience in halal product development. Importantly, all Iranian products are halal by default. Iran is ready to share its expertise in the halal industry with the Philippine government and economic stakeholders.Without a doubt, cooperation in this field can further strengthen the deep historical ties between our two countries.”

He continued:

“We firmly believe that expanding bilateral cooperation in the halal sector will enhance trade and cultural exchange between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of the Philippines, create jobs, and support the growth of local industries.”

In closing, he emphasized that:

“The halal industry is ethical, sustainable, and human-centered, with a promising future. Iran and the Philippines should seize this valuable opportunity to further expand their longstanding and friendly relations.”

Other speakers at the event, who supported UNAP’s mission to promote halal culture in the Philippines, delivered presentations in line with the seminar’s theme. A detailed report of the conference is attached.

 

Speakers included:

• Ms. Jocelyn M. Alparo, UNAM Secretary and President & Co-founder of the Symposium
• Mr. Dimnatang M. Radia, Program Director, Halal Program Management Office, Philippine Department of Trade and Industry
• Dr. Reynaldo Ramos, President, Technological University of the Philippines (TUP)
• Dr. Ramona Ines R. Bustamante Ramzes, National President, UN Association of the Philippines
• Dr. Rene C. Talavera, Head of Program Management Division and Acting Head of Organizational Projects and Programs, National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)
• Dr. Cecile Idot Alvarez, Director, Philippine Center for International Theater, Earth Savers UNESCO Artists for Peace, RIU Center
• Dr. Mayra Paz Valdes Rosa-Abubakar, Deputy Minister of Tourism for Halal and Muslim Affairs
• Dr. and Atty. Alba Cruz, CEO and Curator, Museo de Pasis, Co-Chair, ITI Social Change Network
• Reynaldo A. Dingal, Director of Socio-Economic and Special Services Office
• Amelin Asliah Limbona, Former Commissioner on Women’s Culture in the Philippines, Founder & Chairperson of ARCA Lawanin, and event host