The Philippines officially launched its Halal-Friendly Philippine Pavilion featuring the Province of Sultan Kudarat yesterday, October 21, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), marking a proud moment for the country at the Abu Dhabi International Food Expo 2025, part of Global Food Week 2025.
Carrying the theme “Pang-SK ang lasa, pang-buong mundo ang kalidad!”, the pavilion showcased Sultan Kudarat’s rich agricultural products and world-class halal-certified goods that embody Filipino authenticity and quality.
The launching was graced by key dignitaries, including His Excellency Alfonso A. Ver, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of the Philippines to the United Arab Emirates, who highlighted the importance of international exposure for Filipino producers and the growing demand for halal-compliant products in the Middle East.
Representing Hon. Datu Pax Ali Mangudadatu, Governor of the Province of Sultan Kudarat, was his Chief of Staff, Kaharudin Dalaten. Governor Mangudadatu, the country’s youngest sitting governor, is known for championing agricultural growth, coffee industry development, and tourism initiatives in Region 12.
Also present were Director Aleem Siddiqui M. Guiapal, Program Manager of the DTI Halal Project Management Office; Provincial Director Eddie De Asis of DTI Region 12; Prof. Gau Raganit, Chairperson of the Philippine Business Council–Abu Dhabi; and Mrs. Evangeline Monjardin, Chairwoman of the Philippine Business Council–Dubai and Northern Emirates.
Prominent Filipino entrepreneurs in the UAE also joined the occasion, including Dr. Mary Jane Alvero-Al Mahdi, CEO of Prime Group, and Malou Prado, CEO of MPQ Travel & Tourism, both recognized for supporting Filipino excellence in business and trade representation abroad.
The Philippine Pavilion’s participation in this year’s Abu Dhabi International Food Expo aims to open new trade opportunities and strengthen the country’s position as a reliable global supplier of high-quality, halal-certified food and agricultural products.
