Master in Development Management Alumnus Honored as Philippine Halal Trailblazer
MAKATI CITY, PHILIPPINES – Mr. Aleem Siddiqui M. Guiapal, Master of Development Management 2008, was honored as a Philippine Halal Trailblazer during the 6th Global Travel Exchange Roadshow on 20 February 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. As the current Program Manager at the Department of Trade and Industry – Halal Development and Trade Office, he was part of the Philippine delegation at this event and served as guest of honor and speaker.
Aleem’s groundbreaking work in developing the halal industry in the Philippines is deeply rooted in his background. As a native of Rajah Buayan, Maguindanao del Sur, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, he has drawn from his experience as a Muslim and a Moro to drive his career in the highly technical halal industry.
The demand for halal, meaning “permissible” or “lawful” in Arabic, reflects a growing need to recognize the often-overlooked Moro-Muslim minority in the Philippines, whose population is estimated at 13 million. Industry leaders like Aleem understand the practical, cultural, and religious processes involved in halal production—not only in food and beverages but also in other sectors, such as textiles, appliances, and even banking and financial transactions. This commitment to making halal products and institutions accessible to both Muslim Filipinos and the general public led to Aleem’s inclusion in the technical committee that facilitated the passage of Republic Act 11439, or “An Act Providing for the Regulation and Organization of Islamic Banks.”
The Master in Development Management (MDM) Program equipped Aleem with the skills needed to conduct multi-sectoral work, achieve development goals, and influence policy— key advantages that have shaped his career. A recipient of the Asian Development Bank – Japan Scholarship Program, Aleem demonstrated his leadership abilities by serving as Class President and Student Association Representative at the AIM Board of Trustees. As an active alumnus, he maintains strong ties with AIM Alumni Association chapters in both the Philippines and Malaysia.
Aleem credits the rigorous education he received at AIM, particularly the student-centered case method, for equipping him with the ability to solve real-time problems and adopt best practices. When he assumed his post at the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), he applied this approach to analyze existing data and address knowledge gaps in the sector. This effort led to the creation of the Philippine Halal roadmap, which helped generate PHP 7.9 billion in halal trade revenue and sales.
As a changemaker in the halal industry, Aleem’s accolades reflect his hard work, dedication, and commitment to quality education. His journey at AIM is a cornerstone of his pursuit of excellence and his dedication to bridging sectors to foster unity and understanding— qualities that continue to inspire Moro and Muslim leaders in the Philippines today.
Keen to start on your own journey towards social transformation? Apply now for our 18-month, part-time Master in Development Management Program today: https://aim.edu/programs/master-in-development-management/
