MANILA, Philippines – Proud to be Pinoy! The Philippines showcased its diverse gastronomy and rich culinary heritage at the Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 fair from September 26 to 30 in Turin, Italy.
Among the 600 exhibitors from different countries, the Philippine Pavilion stood out at the event, with long lines hankering for a taste of lechon and locally produced products, including innovative drinks and renowned Philippine coffee.
The booth featured regional cuisines from Cavite; Bacolod, Negros; Capiz; Aklan; and the Cordilleras.
International visitors enjoyed Filipino favorites such as inasal, adobo, sinigang, and kinilaw, and even native recipes using Philippine artisanal salt and coffee. Guests also got to witness different Philippine preparatory techniques during interactive workshops and cooking demonstrations.
They also had the opportunity to taste heirloom rice, native vinegar, and unique artisanal products while also learning about the Philippines’ coffee trails and Slow Food community experiences.
The Philippines pavilion also advocated for local tourism spots, highlighting the country’s cultural landmarks and sustainable practices.
A 90-member delegation of farmers, chefs, restaurant owners, and food advocates from the Philippines participated in the event. They held workshops and panel discussions on sustainable tourism and indigenous ingredients as agents for change in favor of preserving diversity in ecosystems and food production.
During the five-day occasion, professional chefs and culinary experts offered exceptional local dishes that merged traditional and contemporary practices.
The delegations were organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with Slow Food Communities, in support of local food customs and a dedication to practices that make the culinary sector more sustainable.
“The Philippines’ participation in Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 is a significant moment as we present the richness of our food traditions to an international audience,” said DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco in a media statement.
Frasco noted that the delegation shows “the strength and passion of our local communities, with each member working to promote the use of native ingredients and sustainable agricultural methods.”
She added that the country’s involvement highlights “its commitment to integrating sustainable agriculture practices” with tourism and the global movement toward food sovereignty.
Another achievement for the Philippine delegation was the recent recognition of Bacolod City as the first Slow Food hub in Asia and the Pacific.
The event ended with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), where the country cemented its position as the leader in the Slow Food movement in the region. Through this partnership, the Philippines aims to solidify its position as a member of sustainable food systems and encourage Slow Food Travel.
“The Philippines has one of the most organized Slow Food networks in Asia, and our delegation underscores our commitment to championing our unique food heritage and sustainability,” Secretary Frasco said.
She expressed excitement for developing international relations for the reception of “good, clean, and fair food” and to grow Slow Food Travel initiatives. Since Bacolod under its bid to become a Slow Food International hub, Frasco added the plan to “further elevate the country’s status as a key player” in sustainable food systems and “place the Philippines at the forefront of the global movement” of Slow Food Travel and sustainable agriculture to give a venue for the interaction of the regional actors.
The DOT also revealed its offer to host the Terra Madre Asia Pacific in the Philippines in the year 2025.
Terra Madre Salone del Gusto is an international event organized by Slow Food, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture, local food traditions, and biodiversity. “Terra Madre” is Italian for “Mother Earth,” while Salone del Gusto translates to “Hall of Taste” or “Exhibition of Taste.”
The Terra Madre Salone del Gusto is an international event dedicated to good, clean, and fair food. Over 600 exhibitors from different countries share culinary ideas and entertain customers with workshops and food tastings. This year’s theme emphasized sustainability and preserving food traditions, which is consistent with the global tide moving towards food sovereignty. – Zulaikha Palma/Rappler.com
Zulaikha Palma is a Rappler intern studying AB Journalism at University of Santo Tomas.