The global Halal industry is experiencing rapid growth and exerting significant influence on markets worldwide. In the Philippines, efforts to strengthen the Halal sector have received active support from government offices, agencies, and educational institutions like the University of the Philippines (UP).
A notable recent initiative was the “UP Halal Forum: Harmonizing Roles, Addressing Challenges, and Moving Towards a Common Direction,” organized by the Institute of Islamic Studies at UP Diliman in collaboration with the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies-Islamic Studies Program. Held on June 25, 2024, at Virata Hall on the UP Diliman campus in Quezon City, the forum aimed to facilitate discussions on recent developments in Halal, explore potential collaborations in research, publication, and extension services, and strategize future initiatives in the Halal industry.
Key figures at the event, including UP System President Atty. Angelo Jimenez and UP Diliman Chancellor Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II, voiced strong support for the forum, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and national-level backing for the Halal industry. President Jimenez expressed optimism, stating, “I hope that this gathering will provide a roadmap for the Halal industry in the country as we aim to contribute to this trillion-dollar global economy. I am enthusiastic about fostering more collaborations and partnerships within the Halal industry. Let us continue to uphold ‘honor and excellence in the service of the people’ at our national university.” Chancellor Vistan echoed this sentiment, saying, “I look forward to sustained and meaningful collaborations on Halal-related research, discussions, meetings, and future plans for Halal industry development.”
UP IIS Dean Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi also conveyed gratitude for the continued support from the UP System and UP Diliman administration in organizing academic events focused on critical Muslim issues like Halal.
The forum drew participation from key government institutions and agencies, including the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of Agriculture (DA), and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). Representatives from UP-affiliated institutions engaged in Halal initiatives and selected businesses from Metro Manila’s Halal goods sector also attended. This diverse gathering facilitated presentations from government agencies, UP units, and Halal certifiers, enhancing awareness of ongoing efforts and fostering collaborative opportunities.
An important highlight of the forum was a roundtable discussion moderated by Prof. Wadi, where representatives from various government, UP-affiliated, and private institutions exchanged insights and ideas on enhancing collaboration within the Halal industry.
The “UP Halal Forum” served as a crucial platform for stakeholders to converge, paving the way for future collaborations and partnerships. It marked a concerted effort to advance and promote the Halal industry in the Philippines, signaling a commitment to sustainable development and growth in this emerging sector.
The Halal forum is a key project of the Islamic Studies Program at UP CIDS for 2024. As part of this initiative, the program aims to develop a comprehensive discussion paper that showcases a multi-faceted approach to Halal. This methodology ensures thorough research that incorporates both contemporary perspectives and traditional understandings of Halal in the Philippines.
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