The Department of Trade and Industry-Northern Mindanao (DTI-10) and Cagayan de Oro City officials have introduced dedicated halal product sections in the city’s major supermarkets and grocery stores. This initiative supports a city ordinance that encourages retail businesses to establish special lanes for halal-certified products to better serve Muslim customers.

According to Attorney Jose Edgardo Uy, co-chairman of the Regulatory Compliance Board (RCB), the ordinance is voluntary rather than mandatory, with businesses being encouraged to participate rather than required to comply.

Positive Response from Local Businesses

Officials from DTI-10, the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos-Northern Mindanao (NCMF-10), and local government recently visited major retail establishments throughout the city to promote awareness of the ordinance. The response has been encouraging, with at least five large stores agreeing to implement the changes. One grocery store went beyond the basic requirements by installing a specialized freezer unit exclusively for halal-certified frozen items.

DTI-10 Acting Provincial Director Jesusa Abear explained that the initiative aims to make halal-certified products more prominent and reliable for the expanding Muslim population, as well as for all consumers who view halal certification as an indicator of quality, cleanliness, and safety standards.

“This activity ensures that halal-certified products are more visible and trustworthy for our growing Muslim community and for all consumers who see halal as a mark of quality, cleanliness and safety,” Abear stated.

Promoting Community Inclusivity

NCMF-10 officials have praised the collaborative effort, describing it as a significant step forward in fostering inclusivity and respect for the Muslim community. Director Abdulnasser Masorong Jr. emphasized the importance of the initiative, calling it a milestone in promoting inclusivity and diversity.

“It is significant in promoting inclusivity and diversity and economic empowerment of our Muslim brothers and sisters in the region,” Masorong said.

The program demonstrates how local government and business partnerships can create more inclusive retail environments while supporting the economic needs of diverse communities. By making halal products more accessible and visible, the initiative not only serves the Muslim community but also educates other consumers about halal standards and their benefits.

Setting a Regional Example

This voluntary compliance approach represents a model that other cities in the region could adopt, showing how inclusive business practices can be implemented through cooperation rather than enforcement. The success of the program in Cagayan de Oro may inspire similar initiatives across Northern Mindanao and beyond, contributing to greater economic opportunities for Muslim businesses and improved access to halal products for consumers.

Original Article:

GMA Regional TV. (2025, July 10). Halal product lanes opened in stores in CDO. GMA Network. https://www.gmanetwork.com/regionaltv/news/108957/halal-product-lanes-opened-in-stores-in-cdo/story/