President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. encouraged both local and foreign tourists to embrace “experiential tourism” by sampling Filipino delicacies while exploring the country’s regions.
“Sa pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino, ginugunita natin ang ating mga kusina bilang santuwaryo ng ating kasaysayan, ng ating kultura, at pagkatao bilang Pilipino,” Marcos Jr. said during the Filipino Food Month (FFM) kick-off in Quezon province
He stressed that Filipino food plays a key role in “experiential tourism,” where tourists seek more than just relaxation—they want to engage in enriching activities, like tasting local food.
“Napakalaking halaga na ipakilala natin ang pagkaing Pilipino. Dahil kapag nakakain na ang isang dayuhan nang masarap, kahit ano man na klaseng Filipino food, basta’t natikman na niya, malaki na ang kanyang pag-unawa sa kultura ng Pilipino” according to him.
The President emphasized that sampling regional delicacies is the quickest way to appreciate Filipino culture and culinary creativity. He mentioned Ilocos’ “bagnet,” Pampanga’s “sisig,” Cebu’s “lechon,” Quezon’s “pancit habhab,” Bicol’s “laing,” Lucban’s “longganisa,” and Mindanao’s “piyanggang manok” as examples.
Presidential Proclamation No. 469 designates April as Filipino Food Month to preserve, promote, and popularize Filipino cuisine. The month-long celebration includes events like the KAINCON Filipino Food Conference and the AngSarap! Philippine Food Festival.IMT
