The Industrial Technology Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-ITDI) unveiled on Tuesday, Dec. 14, its developed halal-compliant beauty and personal care products.
According to the ITDI, the continued global increase in the Muslim population has increased the demand for other new and differentiated halal products and services.
Among the principles of halal cosmetics and toiletries are no human parts or ingredients; no any parts or substances derived from animals forbidden to Muslims by Shariah Law; not genetically modified; not prepared, processed, manufactured, or stored using any equipment contaminated with things that are najis (unclean) according to Shariah Law; and not in contact and is physically segregated from materials that are not deemed halal.
The event showcased ITDI-developed halal-compliant beauty products such as moisturizing lipstick, lip balm, herbal whitening toothpaste, moisturizing and whitening soap, and shampoo with hair-growing properties.
"The Philippines is on the brink of finding itself drawn on the map of the world halal market. But why is halal important in the Philippines? For consumers of halal products, this has become a seal that the products comply with Islamic dietary requirements. A symbol of Islamic lifestyle, quality, cleanliness, and high health standards," DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said during a virtual forum.
"As more and more of us have become increasingly conscious of our selection of food and beverages, halal-certified products have become good alternatives. Our local halal industry is quite lucky as our Trade and Industry Department has prepared the industry's foundation as early as May 15, 2016," de la Peña added, citing the Republic Act (RA) No. 10817 or the Act Instituting the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Program.
Among its implementing rules and regulations is to mandate government agencies to include halal programs in their plans.
Under the DOST halal S&T Program, the agency assists the upgrading of facilities and the development, training, and education through its grants and aid programs.
DOST also identifies state universities and private higher education institutions that have the capability to support research and development for halal, impart scientific and technical knowledge on halal standards, and in conducting laboratory analysis.
"ITDI has established halal-compliant, standardized, and assurance system for cosmetic and toiletries, developing cosmetics and personal care products," de la Peña added.
"What makes halal personal care different from other similar and commercially available products? Halal personal care is not only halal, its ingredients are pure and espouse taking care of the body."