DA Western Visayas celebrates Filipino Food Month 2024

The Department of Agriculture (DA-WV) in collaboration with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), Department of Tourism (DOT-6), and the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement (PCHM) celebrated the Filipino Food Month 2024 with the theme “Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino, Lakas ng Kabataang Makabago.”

RTD for Research and Regulations Zarlina B. Cuello said that this years’ celebration centers on enticing and empowering the youth to become ambassadors in promoting the culinary heritage and gastronomy. We have to ensure the preservation and transmission of Filipino culinary traditions as established art form to future generations while celebrating and uniting regional diversity, supporting industries and agricultural communities.

An array of products was showcased in the fountain area of Robinsons Main wherein exhibitors from different provinces displayed their native crafts, fresh and processed agricultural products.

The province of Capiz displayed their intricate work of arts from native raw materials that is made into high quality bags and bayongs which captures the attention of guests and mallgoers. The rich aquamarine resources were embodied on their unique products like bangus sardines, dried pusit, dried dilis and processed seaweeds.

The Guimaras hold on to their best seller product – the sweetest mango in the world while the province of Iloilo was proud of its individual towns’ bests. Fresh vegetables from the seven cities barangays of Alimodian. Mangoes and bananas, papaya, batuan, Kadios from Leon, Maasin.

Cooking contest wherein the culinary expertise and traditional dishes were explored from every province. Ms. Analyn Gener got the 3rd place from Bingawan, Iloilo; Jeremiah Andre Ayupan 2nd place from the province of Capiz and Annie Bordalaza from Victorias, Negros Occidental got the 1st place.

For the Still Life painting contest wherein raw materials such as rice, fruits and vegetables and other indigenous materials were used to create a unique art work that truly reflects the Filipino culture. Joshua Celestial came out to be in the 1st place showing his banana tree, sprouting with fruits, a traditional Filipino symbol. Followed by Claire Sta. Ana in 2nd place and Kate Gallarde in third.

The High Value Crops Development Program (HVCP) also celebrated the high value crops week celebration wherein series of seminars on Urban Gardening, Mushroom Shitake production, Onion Production and seminar on Communal Gardening were conducted.
Indeed, the yearly celebration of the Filipino Food Month gave a diverse perspective on where and how we can preserve the Filipino culinary tradition. ###Text:JNCapaciete (DA6/RAFIS) / #VNOQuimpo:Photos