Halal industry pushed

MARAWI CITY - The Raheemah Peace Weavers Producer Cooperative and the Save the Children Philippines have banded together to step up their campaign for a sustainable halal industry in the province of Lanao del Sur. 

The two organizations recently hosted the Global Halal Forum and invited Malaysian experts to personally share their journeys and experiences during the establishment of the halal industry in their country.  

Raheemah Peace Weavers Producer Cooperative Executive Director and Founder Sittie Aishah Baicon Cayongcat Nuska said they began their advocacy with their Malaysian counterparts since they are globally recognized at the forefront of halal promotion. 

“They have the quality standard in terms of halal certification. They are very strict on halal auditing at ang namumuno talaga sa kanilang halal certification is no less than their government,” Nuska said. 

Nusca said they are looking forward to spearhead training on halal industry development alongside the Islamic Banking and Financial System Forum. 

She said they also sealed an agreement with the Ministry of Basic, Higher and Technical Education - Technical Education and Skills Development to elevate the quality assurance of halal products of the micro, small and medium entrepreneurs while making them compliant with the business permits, and ensure the marketing of their products.  

Nusca was optimistic that they would achieve what they desired, especially with their strong partnership with the government that has promulgated relevant policies and laws, and established line agencies overseeing this matter such as the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos and the Department of Trade and Industry. 

“Nandiyan ang ating government na talagang tumutulong sa atin, at ang Raheemah at Save the Children ay kasama ninyo sa pagpupursige sa government to ensure that halal is not only being promoted in this part of the country but also established by the halal industry,” she said. (Claire Gigje)