Piloted in Davao City, the initiative enhances search and filtering features on the Grab app to help consumers identify halal-certified and Muslim-owned restaurants that meet their dietary requirements.
The partnership was formalized through a memorandum of understanding signed on Sept. 9 at Bajada Suites in Davao City. Representatives from the Consulate Office of Malaysia and the Davao City government also attended the event.
Verified choices
Under the initiative, Davao City restaurants must first secure an endorsement from the NCMF before they can be tagged as halal on GrabFood.
When consumers search for “halal,” results will be limited to merchants vetted by halal certification bodies. The universal “Philippine Halal” logo will also appear on the merchant's icon as an additional identifier.
Muslim-owned merchants endorsed by the NCMF may also choose to display a “Muslim-owned” tag to improve their visibility in relevant searches.
Grab is also removing inaccurate or unsupported uses of “halal” in restaurant names to improve the reliability of search results on its platform.
“Our vision is to build an inclusive platform that empowers consumers to make food choices with absolute confidence,” said Grab Philippines Vice President for Cities RJ Cabaluna.
He said the initiative goes beyond food delivery by providing filters and verification systems that address the needs of Muslim consumers.
“We are proud to partner with NCMF Region XI in taking this practical step toward strengthening the local halal food ecosystem and ensuring Grab remains a trusted partner for diverse dietary needs,” Cabaluna said.
Wider ecosystem
Grab and the NCMF are also exploring initiatives beyond the app as part of efforts to strengthen Davao City's halal food ecosystem.
Potential collaborations under the agreement include halal merchant education, consumer-awareness campaigns and capacity-building sessions.
“This partnership goes beyond just an app feature—it is about respecting traditions and building a community where Muslim Filipinos and travelers can order food without worry or hesitation,” said NCMF Region XI Regional Director Arch. Sherrila Porza-Sawah.
She said working directly with Grab would help reduce barriers to finding certified halal food while supporting Muslim merchants and consumers.
The partnership could also make halal food more accessible to Muslim travelers visiting Davao City while giving qualified local restaurants greater visibility on one of the country's major food-delivery platforms. — Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
