Organized by the Philippine Ulama Congress Organization and the local government, the event attracted both Muslims and non-Muslims seeking authentic dishes, which ranged from local to Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines.

Rashdi Laurente, a student, expressed the difficulty of finding halal food in the predominantly Catholic country and highlighted the importance of the bazaar in promoting and celebrating the Muslim community.

Filipino Muslims, who make up around 10% of the Philippine population, primarily live on the islands of Mindanao and the Sulu archipelago, but there are also large numbers in the capital, Manila.

The Philippines is investing in expanding its halal industry to become a major Asian hub, leading to increased interest in Filipino Muslim culinary traditions.

This interest has been reinforced by the presence of Filipino-Palestinians who were evacuated from Gaza during Israeli attacks.

During Ramadan, these evacuees and activists introduced Filipinos to traditional Palestinian dishes at a pop-up restaurant called Little Gaza Kitchen in Quezon City.

This has provided an opportunity for Filipinos to learn about Palestinian culture through food.

The text describes Filipinos, including Laurente and his mother Swelin, visiting the Halal Bazaar in Quezon City, Metro Manila, to buy and enjoy Palestinian food.

They particularly look forward to trying maqlouba, a rice dish cooked with vegetables and meat.

The Filipinos appreciate the Palestinians' love for their food and feel a connection to their warmth and hospitality.

Three non-Muslim friends, Cristine, Jane, and Dom, also plan to visit the Memorial Circle to experience Palestinian food and culture.

Jane and Cristine visited a halal bazaar after learning about it on Facebook.

They came to support refugees from Palestine and to experience the food and culture of the Muslim community in their society.

Cristine expressed that having such an event in their community allows non-Muslims to connect with and appreciate the traditions of others.