GENERAL SANTOS, Philippines – The National Commission of Muslim Filipinos called on the city government of General Santos on Thursday, May 18, to establish a dedicated area for halal food items at the local government-run Central Public Market.Aida Seddic, NCMF provincial director, proposed the measure in response to the outrage expressed by Muslims and non-pork eaters after a team of market inspectors uncovered the deceptive practice on Monday, May 15.
Seddic explained that not all fish, particularly those sourced from fishponds and aquaculture farms, can be considered halal due to the use of certain feeds that may not adhere to halal standards. Seddic said the NCMF was disturbed about the discovery of fish slices coated with pig’s blood being sold at the Central Public Market. She described this practice as “horrible” and “disrespectful” towards Muslims.
Seddic said the discovery was a matter of serious concern not only for public health but also for religious sensibilities and the Muslims’ way of life. Ustadz Alnor Baghdad Mohammad Tan, an Alim of the Mohammad Mosque, joined the call for the establishment of a dedicated area at the public market for slaughtering and selling halal food.
He explained that consuming pork and pig’s blood is considered haram in Islam, and engaging in a single act of haram can void their religious practices, such as prayer and fasting.