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.
