The Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 (DTI-3) recently conducted a seminar aimed at strengthening the digital marketing and e-commerce capabilities of Halal-certified and Halal-oriented micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Central Luzon.

Dubbed “Halal Growth Playbook: From Visibility to Sales Online,” the training was held on June 8 at the Social Action Center of Pampanga (SACOP) and was attended by 23 MSMEs from across the region.

The seminar forms part of DTI’s Halal Industry Development and Promotion Project (HIDPP), which seeks to help local enterprises comply with Halal standards while expanding their market reach through digital platforms.

DTI-3 Regional Director Edna D. Dizon highlighted the growing opportunities within the Halal industry, noting that it now covers sectors beyond food, including cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and tourism. She said the industry presents significant growth potential for MSMEs looking to diversify and participate in global value chains.

The training was facilitated by Amrei C. Dizon, chief creative officer of marketing agency Vitalstrats, who discussed strategies for increasing online visibility and converting customer engagement into sales.

Topics covered included building consumer trust through Halal certification, selecting suitable social media and e-commerce platforms, creating effective digital content, and strengthening customer engagement. Participants also learned how to establish online stores, maximize customer reviews, and use promotions and partnerships to expand their reach.

DTI-3 said the activity is part of its continuing efforts to enhance the competitiveness of Central Luzon MSMEs and prepare them for opportunities in the growing Halal market across ASEAN and other international markets.