DAVAO CITY – The National Commission on Muslim Filipinos in Davao region cried foul over social media content creator Crist Briand and issued a show-cause order against him over an insensitive remark on the concept of halal.

In a statement, the NCMF-Davao expressed serious concern over a social media post by Briand, also known as "Brader," where he made fun of the concept of halal by referring to a so-called “baboy na halal” or halal pig.

"The Commission wishes to emphasize that there is no such thing as a ‘baboy na halal.’ Under Islamic teachings, pork and all its derivatives are universally regarded as haram (forbidden)," NCMF-Davao said.

It added that the content was misleading, offensive, and disrespectful to the religious beliefs and practices of Muslim Filipinos.

Brand posted on his page that he was looking for baboy na halal on Tuesday, Sept. 2. His post earned the ire of the Muslim community and the post was taken down on Wednesday, Sept. 3.

A show-cause order signed by NCMF-Davao chief Sherrila Porza-Sawah reminded Brand that under Islamic teachings and universally accepted Muslim practices, pork and all its derivatives are considered haram.

"Thus, the notion of a ‘baboy na halal’ is not only false and misleading but also highly offensive and disrespectful to the beliefs, religious practices, and cultural sensitivities of the Muslim community," Sawah said.

She directed the controversial content creator to appear before the agency within five days.

"Failure to submit a written explanation within the prescribed period shall be construed as a waiver of your right to be heard, and the Commission shall proceed to take appropriate measures as may be warranted under the circumstances," Sawah said.

She reminded Brand that freedom of expression carries with it the duty to exercise responsibility, sensitivity, and respect towards the diverse faith traditions in our country.