Mayor Isko eyes commerce and culture balance in Halal Town plan, Golden Mosque rehab

Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso on Monday, Nov. 3, expressed the city government’s eagerness to find the perfect balance between sustaining the economy of Manila and preserving its rich history and culture as plans for the development of the long-awaited Halal Town and the major rehabilitation of the Golden Mosque Complex in Quiapo received the green light from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).

- BY PATRICK GARCIA

MANILA MAYOR Francisco "Isko Moreno" Domagoso, Vice Mayor Chi Atienza, DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, and other city government officials lead the site inspection for the proposed Halal Town by the city government on Monday, Nov. 3. (Photo from Manila PIO)

Domagoso met with DBM Sec. Amenah Pangandaman at the City Hall to discuss preparations for the two projects ahead of the country's hosting of the ASEAN Summit next year.

The mayor had earlier met with National Commission on Muslim Filipinos (NCMF) Regional Director Dimapuno Datu Ramos Jr. to tackle the Halal Town project, as the former stressed it is high time for its creation, same as the Chinatown and Korea Town in Manila, as the city continues to become a famous food avenue.

He also suggested the certification of restaurants that are serving traditional Islamic cuisine.

Pangandaman lauded the city government’s concept and assured her agency’s readiness to provide support.

“When I saw your project on TV, the Halal Town, and taking care of our Muslim brothers and sisters in Manila, I was so happy and excited,” she said.

She also expressed her gratitude to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) government for providing funds for the major rehabilitation of the Golden Mosque Complex.