Republic Act No. 10817: Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016

Comprehensive practice questions covering the definitions, organizational structure, regulatory requirements, and policy objectives of the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016.

What is the short title of Republic Act No. 10817?

Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016

According to the Act, how is "Halal" defined?

Lawful or permissible under Sharia'h (Islamic Law)

Which government department is the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Board attached to?

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

Who serves as the Chairperson of the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Board?

The Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)

Who serves as the Vice Chairperson of the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Board?

The Secretary of the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF)

Which agency is empowered to formulate accreditation policies and grant or deny accreditation to Halal certification bodies?

Philippine Accreditation Bureau (PAB)

Which agency is responsible for developing Philippine National Standards for Halal for primary and post-harvest foods?

Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Standards (BAFS)

Which agency is responsible for developing Philippine National Standards for Halal for processed and prepackaged foods, drugs, and cosmetics?

Department of Health - Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Which agency is responsible for developing Philippine National Standards for Halal for nonfood products excluding drugs and cosmetics?

Department of Trade and Industry - Bureau of Philippine Standards (BPS)

Under Section 3, what term refers to a "third party attestation of conformance to standards and guidelines related to products, processes, systems or persons"?

Certification

How long is the term of office for the two (2) Muslim Filipino professionals appointed to the Halal Board?

$3$ years, and they may be reappointed once

Who heads the Secretariat of the Halal Board?

The Director of the Export Marketing Bureau

According to Section 11, is Halal certification mandatory for products intended for domestic consumption?

No, it is voluntary on the part of the producer, manufacturer, trader, retailer, or service provider

What are the three mandatory requirements for Philippine products to be exported as Halal under Section 11?

(i) Undergo certification from an accredited Halal certification body, (ii) comply with appropriate Philippine National Standards or recognized international standards, and (iii) be registered with the national regulatory agency concerned

Which entities are mandated to grant fiscal and non-fiscal incentives to attract investments in pioneering and essential Halal industries?

The Board of Investments, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, and other investment promotion agencies

Which department is responsible for imparting scientific and technical knowledge through the Philippine National Halal Laboratory and Science Center?

Department of Science and Technology (DOST)

Within how many days must the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Act be issued?

Within ninety ($90$) days starting from the effectivity of the Act

When does the Act take effect?

Fifteen ($15$) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation

Who was the President of the Philippines that approved Republic Act No. 10817?

Benigno S. Aquino III

Which previously existing board was dissolved and had its records transferred under the Transitory Provisions?

The Philippine Halal Promotion, Development and Accreditation Board under the NCMF

What is the purpose of the Philippine Halal Export Development and Promotion Act of 2016?

To promote the export of Philippine products that comply with Halal standards and to establish a framework for Halal certification.

What are the benefits of Halal certification for Filipino businesses?

Halal certification can enhance market access, increase consumer confidence, and provide opportunities for global trade, particularly in Muslim-majority markets.

What role does the Halal Board play in promoting Halal industries?

The Halal Board coordinates efforts, develops policies, and oversees the accreditation of Halal certifying bodies to ensure compliance with standards.

What types of products can receive Halal certification?

Products can range from food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals to cosmetics and other non-food items, as long as they meet the Halal standards defined by respective agencies.

What is the significance of having a Philippine National Halal Laboratory and Science Center?

It plays a crucial role in research, development, and testing to ensure compliance with Halal standards and to support industries in improving product quality.