TACLOBAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT) recently held a workshop showcasing halal food to stimulate public interest in engaging different cooking practices and establishing a Muslim-friendly culture in Eastern Visayas.
Halal consists of a wide range of food choices that includes meats, grains, fruits, vegetables, and other various processed goods, adhering to specific guidelines on how they should be prepared in the kitchen.
It strictly observes no contamination, which requires using equipment and utensils that have been thoroughly cleaned. It must also be free from prohibited substances, such as pork, alcohol, and blood.
“When we talk about halal cuisine, it is the kitchen that is being certified as halal, not the food itself. We can actually turn our very own local food to a Muslim-friendly dish, considering that halal has a more tedious cooking process,” said Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, DOT undersecretary for halal tourism and Muslim concerns.
Additionally, with the workshop participated in by non-Muslim individuals, the initiative also aims to call for a collaboration with more local chefs, cooks, and restaurant owners who may be interested to embrace local dishes-turned-Muslim-friendly dishes, in support of boosting the Philippine tourism in the market from outside the country.
Valderrosa-Abubakar confirmed having 600,000 Muslim people who have travelled to the Philippines in the year 2024.
“I am very happy that there is a rising number of international guests visiting and residing here, particularly Muslim people. Sure, they have willingly adapted to our local culture, but to really boost our tourism as well, we can provide food for them too,” she added.
This also became possible with the Memorandum Circular No. 2024-0003, which was amended to recognize Muslim-friendly accommodation establishments through conducting operations and activities of all tourism enterprises.
While both cuisines are with unique characteristics, Halal food is being promoted by the DOT to simply emphasize ethical sourcing and humane treatment of animals, and ensure high hygiene standards. (JKPA, PIA Leyte)
