Iligan City, Philippines – The Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), led by Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, honored the City Government of Iligan for its groundbreaking efforts in institutionalizing the Halal program through Ordinance No. 24-7458. The recognition ceremony was held on December 9, underscoring the city’s commitment to promoting a robust and inclusive Halal industry.
Comprehensive Halal Ordinance
Officially titled “Instituting the City of Iligan Halal Industry Development and Promotion, Requiring the Segregation of Halal Products from Non-Halal/Haram Products in Businesses and Establishments Selling or Involved in the Sale of Halal Products through Halal Lanes, Establishing the Iligan City Halal Council, and for Other Purposes,” the ordinance aims to:
- Regulate businesses involved in processing, producing, marketing, or selling Halal products within Iligan City.
- Promote the segregation of Halal and non-Halal products in establishments through designated Halal lanes.
- Establish the Iligan City Halal Council to oversee the implementation of Halal-related initiatives.
The ordinance aligns with Republic Act No. 10917, also known as the Philippine Halal Law, furthering the collective drive for sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
Recognizing Key Contributors
During the ceremony, DA-10 presented plaques of recognition to key figures who championed the ordinance and its implementation, including:
- Iligan City Mayor Frederick W. Siao
- Co-Chair of the Committee on Agriculture and ordinance author, Atty. Maria Paz Teresa V. Zalsos, CPA
- City Agriculturist Marie Ann J. Beley
- Agriculture and Fisheries focal person Kevin R. Fernan
These individuals were lauded for their unwavering support in advancing Halal industry development and ensuring its integration into the city’s agricultural policies.
DA-10’s Commitment to Halal Development
The DA-10 Halal program, spearheaded by Director Pacamalan and supported by Lanao Norte Provincial Operations Center Chief Engr. Abdulharis P. Paporo, aims to:
- Provide Halal certification assistance.
- Conduct training sessions and seminars for stakeholders.
- Establish Halal facilities to support the industry’s growth.
These initiatives seek to position Halal as a cornerstone of agricultural development, fostering economic opportunities for farmers and businesses.
Driving Inclusive Growth
The institutionalization of the Comprehensive Halal Ordinance signifies Iligan City’s proactive approach to creating a more inclusive and competitive agricultural sector. This milestone demonstrates the power of collaboration between government agencies and local stakeholders in shaping a sustainable future for the Halal industry.