by Eliseo F. Huesca Jr., Vice President for Research, Extension, and Production
In a concerted effort to expand halal awareness and industry growth, the Davao del Norte Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) and Davao del Norte State College (DNSC) have successfully co-hosted a Halal Entrepreneurship event. Held in conjunction with the Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) celebration at the DNSC Campus, this initiative aimed to sustain the gains of various agencies in promoting the halal economy.
The capability-building event drew participants from a wide range of industries, including health and wellness, travel and leisure, food manufacturing, cacao and coconut farming, and food and beverages.
The academe was also well-represented, with faculty members from DNSC’s Bachelor of Science in Food Technology, Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management, Bachelor of Technology and Livelihood Education, and Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship programs in attendance.
The organizers were particularly pleased with the participation of owners and officials from Skin Perfection, BYG Cosmetics Manufacturing, Sabon Depot Mindanao, Rehoboth Agricultural Cooperative, Cocoakraftique Zema Cacao Farm, JJEM Food Products Corporation, Frux Food Products, Ram Food Products, Inc., Molave Hotel, Hijo Resorts Davao, Grand Palms Villa & Hotel, Salt & Pepper, and Azareel’s Biryani House. Also joining the event were Global Pinas Media and representatives from LGU Tagum, LGU Panabo, LGU IGACOS, and LGU DavNor.
The day’s agenda was split into two key sessions. The morning was dedicated to knowledge sharing on halal fundamentals, featuring lecturettes by Dr. Ismael Abaya, a respected entrepreneur, halal product and service consolidator, and an avid halal advocate. Dr. Abaya provided valuable insights into the basics and principles of the halal industry and the halal markets both in the Philippines and abroad. The discussion session was further enriched by the participation of Ms. Christine Esther Flor L. Catoera, one of the halal leaders of DOST XI, and Dr. Eliseo F. Huesca, Jr., the Director of DNSC’s Halal Industry Research and Training Center.
In the afternoon, participants engaged in an industry visit to three notable establishments in Tagum City: Salt and Pepper, an Egyptian-styled food service provider; Banana Beach of Hijo Resorts; and the Grand Palms Villas and Hotel. These visits provided a practical look at how existing businesses can tweak their operations to champion Muslim-friendly practices and the possibilities of acquiring halal certifications in the near future.
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