Community pantries have been popping out across the Philippines to help aid the economic impact brought by COVID-19. In an article published by Rappler, University of the Philippines (UP) physics instructor Rene Principe Jr. initiated the first Cagayan De Oro community pantry located at Pasil Road, Barangay Kauswangan. On April 20, four new pantries were started wherein one of which offers halal food.
Norkhalila Mae Mambuay-Campong, restaurateur, set up the first halal pantry in the city which was situated just outside her halal-certified restaurant, Babu Kwan, and near the Masjid Oro Jamah mosque on Aguinaldo Street.
“The halal community pantry is for everyone in need, Muslims and non-Muslims. There’s emphasis on halal so that Muslims can freely get supplies without fear of getting haram supplies” a statement she gave Rappler on April 21.
Halal food adheres to Islamic law while Haram food is prohibited.
Aside from this, three other pantries were set up at the the RVS Plaza in Barangay Bugo, at Holy Rosary Petron gas station on CM Recto Avenue, and at Aurora Street in Zone 3, Barangay Agusan.
Having these in place, let us not forget to follow the safety protocols and ensure social distancing at all times.
The Mustaqim community is truly grateful and inspired with these initiatives!
