Halal Research and Training Center - MSU Gensan

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 | MSU–General Santos, Philippine Ulama Congress Organization, Inc. sign MOA for strengthened research and halal industry collaboration

MSU-GS CAMPUS, FATIMA, GSC — Mindanao State University–General Santos (MSU-GenSan) and the Philippine Ulama Congress Organization, Inc. (PUCOI) officially formalized a landmark partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held on April 13, 2026. This collaboration aims to revolutionize the halal ecosystem in Southern Mindanao through integrated research, extension services, and industry development.

The realization of this strategic alliance was spearheaded and facilitated by the Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC), the university’s dedicated arm for halal excellence. Operating under the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension and Innovation (OVCREI), the HRTC will serve as the primary implementing unit, ensuring that the agreement translates into measurable impacts for the community.

University Chancellor Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, MDM, LLM reaffirmed the university's dedication to this "covenant of shared responsibility" during his Message of Commitment.

Representing the Philippine Ulama Congress Organization, Inc., President and CEO Ustadh Luqman L. Bin Usman Imam, MAIS, SCL, underscored the essential synergy between spiritual leadership and academic rigor. He noted that state universities are uniquely positioned to provide the research and expertise necessary to sustain a globally competitive halal industry.

The event was witnessed by Dr. Christine Dawn G. Obemio, Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension and Innovation, Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip, HRTC Director, along with other university officials and esteemed colleagues from the HRTC.

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡 | The Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC) remains steadfast in its commitment to operational efficiency and institutional growth. Today, April 8, 2026, HRTC personnel convened for a productive monthly meeting at the HRTC office to ensure all deliverables are on track and aligned with the university's mission.

The session focused on a comprehensive agenda designed to streamline operations and strengthen our collective impact:

• Kamustahan Session: A dedicated time for staff check-ins to ensure team well-being and synergy.
• Operational Updates: Addressing critical finance concerns, supply procurement, and the status of ongoing Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs).
• Strategic Alignment: Reviewing the MOA signing and benchmark updating to stay ahead in research and training standards.
• Performance Evaluation: A post-evaluation of HRTC’s operations to maintain high-quality service delivery.

By reinforcing our internal processes, HRTC ensures its operations are perpetually aligned with the University Chancellor’s agenda, moving Mindanao State University-General Santos forward as a leader in Halal research and academic excellence.

Together, we are fostering excellence!

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡 | Today, March 30, 2026, HRTC Director Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip, accompanied by Halal Training Focal Person Mr. Johair M. Daud, paid a courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor for Research, Extension, and Innovation, Dr. Christine Dawn G. Obemio.

Beyond a formal introduction, Prof. Sarip shared a sneak peek into HRTC’s upcoming strategic plans, highlighting a commitment to excellence within the OVCREI domain. Exciting developments for the Halal industry and institutional research are on the horizon!

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡 | Building a Unified Halal Ecosystem in Mindanao

The MSU-GenSan Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC) continues to lead the way in advancing Halal standards and agricultural innovation.

On March 23-24, 2026, HRTC Director Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip and Focal Person Mr. Johair Daud represented the Office of the University Chancellor, Atty. Shidik T. Abantas, at the Mindanao-wide Halal Planning Workshop and Stakeholders Meeting 2026 held at the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI-RTC XII), USM Compound, Kabacan.

This strategic gathering, organized by the Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Training Institute, focused on several key objectives:
• Strengthening Connections: Building collaborative relationships among Halal coordinators and practitioners across Mindanao.
• Sharing Best Practices: Discussing challenges and identifying solutions for Halal compliance through case studies and plenary sessions.
• Agricultural Innovation: Identifying specific solutions for various agricultural sectors through intensive group work.
• Resource Mapping: Providing stakeholders with updated information on resources, training programs, and support services in Halal agriculture.

By engaging in these collaborative planning sessions, MSU-GenSan reaffirms its commitment to supporting the "Bagong Pilipinas" vision of a sustainable, food-secure, and globally competitive Halal industry.

𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦 | Strengthening Partnerships for Excellence

The Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC), in collaboration with the Institute of Islamic and Arabic Studies (IIAIS), successfully conducted a Virtual Stakeholders’ Meeting on March 17, 2026.

Bringing together parents, students, and institutional partners, the session focused on transparency and academic growth. In line with the university’s commitment to high quality assurance standards, the meeting served as a vital platform to:
• Update stakeholders on the ongoing initiatives of both HRTC and IIAIS.
• Share upcoming activities and strategic programs designed to enhance the student experience.
• Recognize excellence through the presentation of the Dean’s List for the 1st Semester of A.Y. 2025-2026.

Key presentations were led by Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip, HRTC Director, and Ms. Asnaira P. Sarip, Islamic Studies Chairperson.

Under the leadership of University Chancellor Shidik Zed T. AbantasZed Abantas, Mindanao State University - General Santos joins our Muslim community in celebrating Eid’l Fitr, a time of gratitude and renewal.

Eid Mubarak!

As we mark the end of the Holy Month of Ramadan, Mindanao State University–General Santos joins our Muslim community in celebrating Eid’l Fitr, a time of gratitude and renewal.

In today’s world of challenges, may faith give us strength and hope. We pray for peace in our communities, justice for those facing hardship, and accountability and compassion among those in positions of power. May we all remain committed to building a society grounded in fairness and unity.

May Allah (SWT) accept our prayers and bless you and your loved ones.

Eid Mubarak!

𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧: 𝗘𝗜𝗗 𝗔𝗟-𝗙𝗜𝗧𝗥 𝗣𝗥𝗔𝗬𝗘𝗥 𝟭𝟰𝟰𝟳𝗛 🌕

The MSU-Gensan Halal Research and Training Center invites the community to join the Eid al-Fitr Prayer at the MSU-GenSan Compound.

📌 IMPORTANT: The exact date of Eid depends on the official sighting of the Shawwal moon. Prayer will be held on March 21, 2026.

🗓️ Date: March 21, 2026 (Saturday)
⏰ Time: 6:30 AM
📍 Venue: MSU Tennis Court, Fatima, General Santos City
🎤 Khateeb: Ustadh Johair M. Daud

Stay tuned to our page for the official announcement following the moon sighting.

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 | MSU-GenSan HRTC Hosts Ramadan Iftar at HRTC Office

GENERAL SANTOS CITY (March 12, 2026) — The MSU-General Santos Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC) held a solemn Ramadhan Iftar at the HRTC Office, bringing together university personnel for a moment of spiritual reflection and community.

The gathering was led by the HRTC Director and facilitated by HRTC staff alongside personnel from other university offices. As the sun set, participants broke their fast together, highlighting the center’s commitment to fostering Islamic values and strengthening professional bonds through the spirit of Ramadhan.

The event underscored the HRTC’s role as a hub for both Halal excellence and cultural unity within the Mindanao State University - General Santos community.

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡 | HRTC Hosts Courtesy Visit of Respected Islamic Leader, Shiekh Abdullah Edris

On March 10, 2026, the Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC) of Mindanao State University-General Santos warmly welcomed Shiekh Abdullah Edris, esteemed Director of a prominent Islamic Institution in General Santos City.

The courtesy visit provided an opportunity for HRTC Director Sarip, to discuss potential collaborations and strengthen ties, reinforcing HRTC's commitment to promoting halal excellence and community engagement.

𝗢𝗡 𝗙𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗦 | HRTC Hosts Courtesy Visit of Renowned Islamic Scholar, Shiekh Zacariah Candao Tambo

On March 6, 2026, the Halal Research and Training Center (HRTC) of Mindanao State University-General Santos warmly welcomed Shiekh Zacariah Candao Tambo, esteemed Director of a Private Islamic Institution in Marawi City and alumnus of the Islamic University of Madinah.

The courtesy visit provided an opportunity for HRTC Director Sarip, to engage in discussions on potential collaborations, reinforcing the institution's commitment to promoting halal excellence and fostering spiritual growth. The visit underscores HRTC's dedication to nurturing partnerships with esteemed Islamic scholars and institutions.

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: 𝐌𝐒𝐔-𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐑𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐟𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

Mindanao State University–General Santos gathered students, faculty, staff, and guests for the Ramadan Symposium and Grand Iftar 2026 held on March 6, 2026, fostering reflection and spiritual growth within the academic community.

The program opened with welcoming remarks from Prof. Jamilnur D. Sarip, Director og Halal Research and Training Center, who greeted the participants and emphasized the importance of strengthening faith and community during the holy month of Ramadan.

In his message, Chancellor Shidik T. Abantas underscored the value of dialogue and understanding in nurturing a culture of respect and spiritual awareness within the University. “May this gathering remind us that faith and unity remain essential in building a compassionate and enlightened academic community,” he shared.

The symposium featured Sheikh Zacaria Candao Tambo, Director of Maqra-al-Alwahiyain and a scholar from the Islamic University of Madinah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who delivered a lecture titled “Empowering Spiritual Growth: Strategies for Nurturing Faith and Excellence in the Digital Age.” He highlighted opportunities for spiritual growth in today’s digital era, particularly the increased access to knowledge through online platforms and the importance of developing digital Taqwah—mindfulness and discipline in using technology. At the same time, he emphasized the need to remain vigilant against digital temptations such as harmful online content and excessive self-promotion, encouraging participants to practice self-control and purposeful engagement in digital spaces.

As the Adhan was called, attendees gathered for the Grand Iftar, sharing a meal together in the spirit of gratitude and fellowship. Participants also joined in prayer, further strengthening the sense of unity and spiritual reflection during the holy month of Ramadan. The program continued with the presentation of tokens and plaques of appreciation to the guest speaker, followed by a Ramadan trivia segment and the awarding of certificates to participants and organizers.

Through initiatives like the Ramadan Symposium and Grand Iftar, MSU-GenSan continues to cultivate an environment that celebrates diversity and shared learning among its academic community.