Category: News & Archives

UP IIS and UP CIDS Islamic Studies Program Hold UP Halal Forum

Post author By Kamaruddin Bin Alawi Mohammad
Post date 10 Jul 2024

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.

News & Archives

IIS Organizes 2024 ‘Eid al-Adha Congregational Prayer

Post author By UP Institute of Islamic Studies
Post date 10 Jul 2024

The UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) organized a congregational prayer for ‘Eid al-Adha on June 16, 2024, at Ang Bahay ng Alumni, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City. Nearly a thousand Muslims from diverse backgrounds across the National Capital Region gathered to observe this important occasion. ‘Eid al-Adha, known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” holds profound significance in Islam, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) in obedience to God.

Leading the prayer and delivering the khutbah (sermon) was Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, the dean of the UP IIS. Dean Wadi underscored the Hajj pilgrimage as one of the “Five Pillars of Islam,” obligatory for those who are physically, mentally, and financially capable. He drew upon the teachings of Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him), highlighting the pillars of Islam and emphasizing the spiritual essence of Hajj, particularly the significance of ‘Arafah as a sacred site.

In his address, Dean Wadi also touched upon the ongoing struggles of the Palestinian people, urging solidarity and compassion. He also spoke on the profound spiritual significance of Hajj and the sacred site of ‘Arafah, while addressing the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians. “We stand in solidarity and gratitude for the enduring sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim’s descendants in Gaza, West Bank, East Jerusalem, and beyond,” he remarked.

The annual ‘Eid al-Adha congregational prayer hosted by the Institute is among several outreach initiatives by the UP IIS, offering a dedicated space for the Muslim community to gather and observe their faith.

News & Archives

Celebrating a New Generation of Scholars: UP Institute of Islamic Studies Holds 34th Recognition Ceremony

Post author By Kamaruddin Bin Alawi Mohammad
Post date 2 Jun 2024

The University of the Philippines Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) celebrated the achievements of its new batch of Master of Arts in Islamic Studies graduates during the 34th Recognition Ceremony on July 27, 2024, at Virata Hall, UP Diliman Campus, Quezon City.

With the theme “Pagtammat: Bagong Simula at Malikhaing Paraan sa Pagtuklas ng Katotohanan at Paglingkod sa Bayan at Sangkatauhan”, the ceremony highlighted the graduates’ journeys as they embark on new paths in the pursuit of knowledge and service. “It is a reminder that we will engage in a renewed endeavor to seek truth and fulfill our duty to the nation and humanity,” stated Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, Dean of UP IIS.

Joining Dean Wadi this year was Hon. Almarim Centi Tillah, Presidential Adviser on Muslim Affairs, who served as the guest of honor. In his inspirational address, Hon. Tillah shared his six-decade-long advocacy for strengthening Muslim Filipino institutions nationwide, stemming from his roles as a student leader, organizer, public servant, and now Presidential Adviser. He encouraged the graduates to return to their communities, emphasizing, “It is there where they are most needed.”

Among the graduates honored this year were Sittie Aifat A. Ali, Paul Mark C. Andres, Ali Imran R. Arsad, Sittie Nur S. Cali, and Abdul Majid P. Marohombsar. Reflecting on their journeys, the graduates expressed their gratitude to the Institute for fostering an academic environment that was “both stimulating and challenging.” They also thanked their professors for showing that “kindness and intelligence can go hand in hand,” as they shape a new generation of Muslim scholars “versed in both social sciences and Islamic studies.” They acknowledged that graduating from the Institute meant carrying forward “the standards of UP and the values of Islam.”

Atty. Mehol K. Sadain, a distinguished professor at UP IIS, also shared words of inspiration with the graduates, connecting his message to the significance of “pagtammat,” a term denoting the completion of the Qur’an, particularly through memorization, as practiced in Sulu and Tawi-Tawi. Just as pagtammat implies fulfillment, graduation from UP IIS marks a milestone in the graduates’ educational journeys. He reminded them to “honor the blessings of pagtammat and continue to uphold the values of the University and the Institute in their pursuits.”

In addition to the graduates, UP IIS recognized other students who have excelled academically through university and college scholar certifications. Shari’ah Bar 2024 passers who are students and alumni of the Institute were also honored during the event.

The annual recognition ceremony at UP IIS celebrates student achievements and brings together the UP IIS community, united in their commitment to the greater good of the Ummah—a mission that extends far beyond the Institute’s walls.

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News & Archives

Islamic Law Gains National Recognition with New Shari’ah Judicial Districts and Courts, UP CIDS-ISP and UP IIS Augment Initiatives with Shari’ah Education Campaign

Post author By UP Institute of Islamic Studies
Post date 31 May 2024

On April 29, 2024, the government achieved a milestone recognition of Shariah law with the approval of Senate Bill No. 2594. This landmark legislation establishes three additional Shariah Judicial Districts and 12 Shariah Circuit Courts outside the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).

In support of this significant development, the UP Center for Integrative and Development Studies-Islamic Studies Program (UP CIDS-ISP) and UP Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS) have launched the Shari’ah Education Campaign. The initiative, which began with a webinar on May 25, 2024, aims to raise awareness and promote Shari’ah Law among Muslim communities across the Philippines. The campaign is designed to help Muslim constituents access the services of Shari’ah Courts and seek guidance from Shari’ah Councilors, enhancing the integration of Shari’ah services into their daily lives.

The Shari’ah Education Campaign features lectures from esteemed Muslim scholars at UP IIS. The first lecture was delivered by Asst. Prof. Darwin J. Absari, provided an in-depth history of Islamic Law in the Philippines, tracing its evolution from the pre-Islamic period to its current inclusion in the Philippine Constitution. Assoc. Prof. Macrina A. Morados followed with a comprehensive overview of Presidential Decree 1083, also known as the Code of Muslim Personal Laws, detailing its legal framework and highlighting key provisions.

During the webinar, participants had the opportunity to engage with the speakers, raising questions and seeking clarifications on various legal issues. These inquiries were comprehensively addressed by Assoc. Prof. Morados, a recognized Shari’ah Counselor.

Asst. Prof. Absari announced future Shari’ah Education Campaign events, planned for Muslim communities in Metro Manila and selected areas within BARMM. This ongoing effort by UP IIS and UP CIDS-ISP aims to foster collaboration between academia and society and to promote and strengthen the implementation of Shari’ah practices.

The Shari’ah Education Campaign represents a significant move in enhancing the understanding and application of Shari’ah Law in the Philippines, reflecting a broader commitment to integrating Islamic legal principles within the national legal framework.

News & Archives

UP IIS Forges Partnership with American Open University, Hosts Seminar on Humanity and the Qur’an

Post author By UP Institute of Islamic Studies
Post date 28 May 2024

On May 23, 2024, the University of the Philippines, through its Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS), formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the American Open University (AOU). The signing ceremony was led by UP Diliman Chancellor Atty. Edgardo Carlo L. Vistan II and AOU Board of Trustee Engr. Ossama Mohammad Suhail Alazzouni, with UP IIS Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi signing as a witness.

In his message, Chancellor Vistan congratulated UP IIS for achieving another milestone by expanding its global partnerships. The MOU with AOU will foster various academic activities based on equality and reciprocity. These activities include the exchange of faculty, researchers, and administrative staff; student exchanges; collaborative research projects; lectures and symposia; the exchange of academic information and materials; and other forms of academic cooperation.

Prof. Wadi expressed his gratitude to Chancellor Vistan and UP System President Angelo Jimenez for their unwavering support. He noted that this support is crucial as the Institute prepares to move to its new building, the New Institute of Islamic Studies Complex, expected to be completed by early 2025. Strengthening partnerships with local and international institutions, such as AOU, is a key part of this preparation.

The partnership with AOU was inaugurated with the “Seminar on Humanity and the Qur’an,” co-organized by the International Center for Social Research, Peace, and Development (ICSRPD) and AOU. The seminar highlighted the relevance of the Qur’an as a comprehensive guide for humanity and provided a platform for engaging discussions on the topic.

Engr. Ossama Al-Azzouni was one of the key speakers at the seminar, discussing the “Paradigm of Reforming.” He emphasized how the Qur’an can guide in redefining and reviving values within societal systems. Another notable speaker, Ustadh Ahmed Hamdeen Eissa, a respected Islamic scholar from Egypt and a Qur’an researcher at ICSRPD, lectured on humanity in relation to the Qur’an. He highlighted the importance of genuinely understanding and applying the teachings of the Qur’an.

The seminar included a question-and-answer session, allowing attendees to seek clarifications and deepen their understanding of the topics discussed. This interactive component was crucial in imparting vital lessons about humanity and the Qur’an.

Prof. Wadi mentioned that this seminar marks the beginning of many future engagements between UP IIS and AOU, as well as with other potential partners. He encouraged attendees to continuously engage with UP IIS’s new programs and activities, extending an invitation to visit the New Institute of Islamic Studies, the new home of IIS.

This partnership signifies a significant step forward for UP IIS, committing to enhanced academic collaborations and a broader exchange of knowledge and cultural understanding.

Present during the seminar were faculty, staff, and students from the UP IIS; members of the UP Muslim Students’ Association; seminarians from the Xaverian Missionaries; asatidz from the Islamic Studies, Call, and Guidance; members of the Philippine Coast Guard; and personnel from the ICSRPD.

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