DOST-ITDI signs an MOA on a halal cosmetics market study with a research partner, not with UP Diliman – Manila Bulletin

The Institute for the Development of Industrial Technology of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-ITDI) clarified on Wednesday August 18 that it had entered into a partnership with its market research partner, Dr. Dave Centeno and not with the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman for the study of halal cosmetics market in the country.

DOST-ITDI Director Dr Annabelle V. Briones released a statement on Wednesday after it was reported that the Institute had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOA) with UP Diliman for the implementation of the project. “Bench scale production, safety assessment and market Research of halal cosmetics and toiletries.”

“DOST-ITDI would like to clarify that Dr Dave Centeno, Market Research Partner, is the halal cosmetics market research partner in the Philippines,” she said in a statement.

“Dr. Centeno signed the MOA in a personal capacity and is currently serving as a consultant for the project, not a representative of UP Diliman,” she added.

DOST released a report in July that ITDI signed a memorandum of understanding with UP Diliman for market research on halal cosmetics.

As part of the project, ITDI’s Halal Cosmetics and Toiletries Research and Development (R&D) team will provide 50 sets of halal compliant products, based on the report.

These include moisturizing lipstick, moisturizing lip balm, shampoo with hair growth promoting properties, whitening and moisturizing bath soap, and herbal whitening toothpaste.

The products were developed under the project “Establishing a Halal-Compliant Standard Process and Assurance System for Cosmetics and Toiletries”, which is funded by the DOST-Philippine Council for research and development of industry, energy and emerging technologies (PCIEERD).

The PCIEERD-funded project is a component of the DOST Halal Science and Technology (S&T) program.