The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Regional Office No.11 (DOST-XI) is breaking new ground with the establishment of the Philippines' first Halal Kitchen in partnership with the Philippine Women’s College (PWC) in Davao City. This pioneering facility will serve as an innovation, research, and demonstration center for the Halal industry, addressing a significant gap in Halal certification and services in the region.
Bridging the Gap in Halal Services
Despite various initiatives aimed at promoting Halal standards, such as the Halal Verification and Laboratory and collaborative research and development projects, there remains a noticeable shortage of halal-certified establishments in Davao. Mayan Jane J. Inni, Assistant Regional Director for DOST-XI, noted this gap, explaining, “Davao has the potential to be a major hub for Halal-related activities, but the current lack of certified hotels and restaurants limits this potential. The Halal Kitchen at PWC will bridge this gap by offering essential research, training, and innovation for the industry.” The new facility aims to enhance local and national Halal services, boost tourism, and support educational efforts related to Halal practices.
A Milestone for the Halal Industry
The launch of the Davao Region Halal Kitchen represents a significant milestone in the Philippines’ Halal industry. Dr. Aristotle P. Carandang, Dean of PWC, highlighted the economic potential of the Halal sector, calling it a burgeoning industry with substantial income-generating opportunities. “This facility is not just a first for the Philippines; it is a crucial step forward in addressing the challenges faced by the Halal sector,” Carandang said. Funded by DOST-XI and the DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development, the facility is expected to become operational later this year. It will also incorporate Halal training into PWC’s curriculum, equipping future professionals with valuable knowledge and skills. DOST-XI will support the facility by providing experts and training resources, reinforcing its role as a key player in advancing the Halal industry.
The facility's inauguration was highlighted during the Science Journo Ako (SJA) seminar-workshop held in Davao City on 10-11 July 2024. The event, organized by the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute, introduced the Halal Kitchen to 54 junior and senior high school students and teachers from 15 schools in the Davao region. This introduction underscores the facility’s anticipated impact on both education and the Halal industry, marking a new chapter in the development of Halal practices in the Philippines.