Manila celebrates Halal culture, women empowerment this March

The City Government of Manila will celebrate Halal culture and women empowerment from March 23 to 26, 2026.

According to a statement, the Manila Halal Festival will take place on March 23–25 at the Inner Court of Manila City Hall, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

The festival will showcase Halal-certified products, culinary traditions, and the growing Halal ecosystem in the country.

The event will also feature capacity-building seminars for local entrepreneurs, MSMEs, and stakeholders, reflecting Manila City’s focus on diversity, inclusive growth, and global competitiveness.

Visitors can enjoy Halal food offerings, discover new products, and gain a deeper appreciation of the cultural and economic significance of Halal locally and internationally.

The festival is organized in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT).

On March 26, Manila will host “Bongga Ka, Gurl! The 90s Street Jam”, a colorful celebration of empowerment and self-expression.

The event begins with the symbolic “Lakad para sa Kababaihan” at 5 p.m. in Rajah Sulayman Park, honoring the strength, resilience, and contributions of women.

The walk will proceed to Remedios Circle at 6 p.m., where streets will transform into an open-air dance floor for a 90s-inspired street jam.

Participants are encouraged to wear 90s-inspired outfits as the event celebrates womanhood through music, performances, movement, and community festivities.

Organized by DTCAM in partnership with the Malate-Ermita Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (MEEDIPO), the celebration highlights Manila’s commitment to safe, inclusive, and empowering public spaces.

Admission is free and open to the public.—Jamil Santos/MCG, GMA Integrated News