Manila eyes halal town, golden mosque revival

Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso met with Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on Monday to discuss the city’s proposed Halal Town development and the planned rehabilitation of the Golden Mosque Complex in Quiapo, projects being prepared ahead of the Philippines’ hosting of the ASEAN Summit next year.

Speaking at Manila City Hall, Domagoso welcomed Pangandaman and her team from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), aiming to ensure alignment between the city and national government goals.

Pangandaman commended Manila’s Halal Town concept and assured the city of the DBM’s support. She cited that the national government is also preparing for a major restoration of the Golden Mosque, a historic site originally built during the time of the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr.

“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,” Pangandaman told the mayor.

The DBM chief revealed that the restoration follows earlier instructions from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos to upgrade the site. Pangandaman also noted that the United Arab Emirates government is expected to provide funding for the Golden Mosque Complex restoration.

Pangandaman cited the strategic proximity of the Quiapo Church and the Golden Mosque as powerful symbols of unity, stating the rehabilitation aligns with Manila’s efforts to showcase religious coexistence and cultural tourism.

“For those who are Muslim, they can come here; the Catholics, they can visit here. Then, there’s exchange, it’s good for tourism prospects, trade, work, jobs, livelihood, among others,” she added.