Restaurants, hotels, malls and other food establishments in Cebu City are being encouraged to offer more halal food choices as the city seeks to better serve Muslim residents, workers and visitors.
Cebu City Councilor Paul Labra has introduced a proposed resolution urging businesses to consider offering halal-certified or halal-compliant food and beverages.
Halal refers to food and beverages prepared, processed, handled and served in accordance with Islamic law.
The proposed measure does not require businesses to offer halal products. Instead, it encourages establishments to adopt halal options based on their capacity while continuing to comply with existing food safety regulations and official halal certification standards.
Businesses that offer halal products would also be encouraged to clearly label them so Muslim consumers can identify their food choices.
The proposal calls on participating establishments to consult Muslim community representatives and recognized halal certification bodies on food preparation, handling and promotion.
The measure cited Cebu City’s growing role as a destination for domestic and international visitors, including tourists from Muslim-majority countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia.
“Cebu City continues to welcome domestic and international visitors, including tourists from Muslim-majority countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia, thereby creating a growing need for establishments that are responsive to diverse cultural and religious practices and dietary requirements,” the resolution stated.
Labra’s proposal also encourages businesses to consider providing designated prayer spaces as part of efforts to make establishments more accommodating to Muslim customers.
The resolution said expanding halal food choices could help local businesses reach more Muslim consumers while strengthening Cebu City’s position as a destination for tourism, business and investment.
The proposed resolution still has to undergo the legislative process of the Cebu City Council before it can be adopted.
If approved, it would provide a citywide call for businesses to voluntarily expand halal offerings and consider other measures that promote greater inclusivity.
Photo courtesy of Royal Cliff Hotels Group
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