A Study on the Awareness of Both Muslims and Non-Muslims on Halal Food: A Case Study of the People Who Eat at Halal Restaurants in Manila

Abstract

There has always been separatist sentiment between Muslims and non-Muslims in the Philippines. This may be caused by their differences in beliefs, traditions and practices. Differences, per se, are not actually the problem but the ignorance and lack of understanding regarding each other’s religious differences. This research paper tackles the awareness of both Muslims and non-Muslims on halal food. Eating halal is traditionally practiced by Muslims alone but today, more and more non-Muslims also prefer halal foods over non-halal foods. Muslims eat halal foods basically because it is written in the Holy Qur’an and it they must follow. Some non-Muslims eat halal food because of its assured quality meat that has gone through a very hygienic process. But then, it is still undeniable that this “health benefit” of halal food is not regarded much by both Muslims and non-Muslims. The government is currently developing the halal industry in the country. This would definitely entail progress in the country’s economic, social, and cultural status since the said industry would be religion-sensitive in itself while involving both Muslims and non-Muslims. But then, the government seems to rely more on the market outside the country, those states that would want to import halal meats from the Philippines, than that of the local market when in fact, a huge local market of Filipino Muslims and non-Muslims arc just waiting to be tapped here. The government would just have to work on further increasing the awareness of both Muslims and non-Muslims on halal food so as to achieve true economic, social, and cultural development through this industry.