Photo courtesy of Manila Public Information Office
A new food park officially opened in Malate as part of the Happy Hour program, providing a designated space for small food entrepreneurs to operate in the area.
The opening featured several food stalls, including Al Bayt, operated by Aiman Abu-Hanieh and Manar Abu-Hanieh, who, together with their family, are refugees from Gaza now residing in the Philippines. The family, who are Filipino citizens, were stranded in Gaza for 35 days during the conflict in October 2023 before being repatriated to Egypt and later returned to the Philippines with assistance from the Philippine Embassy.
Now based in Imus, Cavite, the family previously established Al Bayt Restaurant, which gained attention among local diners. Their participation in the Malate food park marks an expansion of their business into organized food bazaars in Manila.
City officials said the Happy Hour food park is intended to provide an orderly and regulated venue for vendors, while supporting small-scale entrepreneurs and promoting economic activity in Malate.
The program is being implemented by the Malate-Ermita Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (MEEDIPO) in coordination with the Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts of Manila (DTCAM).
Officials also reiterated that the city remains open and safe for legitimate business activities, regardless of background, religion, or nationality.