As Filipino Food Month nears its close, the Davao Region is celebrating its vibrant culinary heritage and honoring the vital role of its farmers through a regional food exhibit held at Ayala Malls Abreeza until April 27.
With the theme “Sarap ng Pagkaing Pilipino: Yaman ng ating Kasaysayan, Kultura, at Pagkatao” (Savory Filipino Food: A Treasure of History, Culture and Identity), the event highlights the region’s diverse flavors and the use of locally sourced, often forgotten ingredients that are being revived in modern kitchens.
“From the majestic mountains to the bountiful coasts, Davao’s diverse flavors truly reflect the heart and soul of its people — resilient, creative, and deeply connected to the land that sustains them,” said Tanya Rabat-Tan, Director of the Department of Tourism in Davao Region (DOT-11).
Tan emphasized the event’s effort to showcase the full journey of food — from the hardworking farmers who cultivate heirloom crops, to the chefs who turn local ingredients into stories on a plate. “We proudly honor our farmers, the true stewards of our land… We also pay homage to our cooks and chefs, the storytellers who weave together history and innovation into every single dish,” she added.
Department of Agriculture-11 Technical Director Zabdiel Zacarias echoed these sentiments, stressing agriculture’s influence on Filipino identity and daily life.
“As we approach the culmination of this meaningful celebration, may we all renew our unwavering commitment to support our hardworking farming and fishing communities… while uplifting the promising future of our region’s agricultural strengths,” he said.
Zacarias urged continued support for local produce, sustainable practices, and Filipino cuisine as symbols of national pride and resilience.