The Philippines is taking another major step in global gastronomy by hosting the first-ever Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific from November 19 to 23 at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City. The event, held after the successful debut of the Michelin Guide in the country, reinforces the Philippines’ growing reputation as a leading culinary destination.
Organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) with Slow Food International and local government partners, the gathering highlights the nation’s rich food heritage, sustainable agriculture, and community-rooted culinary traditions. It also supports the country’s push toward becoming a global culinary capital under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the event showcases Filipino creativity, local communities, and indigenous ingredients. “This partnership between the DOT and Slow Food for the hosting of the first-ever Terra Madre Asia & Pacific positions Bacolod City, the Negros Island Region, and the Philippines as a vibrant gateway to gastronomy tourism. This landmark event brings the world to our tables and into our communities—where every ingredient represents the industry of our people, every dish tells of our proud history, and every meal supports local livelihoods. We warmly welcome our guests to Bacolod as we invite travelers to discover the diversity of Philippine cuisine and the richness of our culture, served with the signature warmth and hospitality that is very Filipino,” she said.
She added, “From the historic arrival of the Michelin Guide to our country’s hosting of the Terra Madre Asia and the Pacific, the Philippines is fast emerging as Asia’s Rising Culinary Capital. With the partnership and support of our stakeholders, we are unlocking opportunities through gastronomy tourism while celebrating our traditions, empowering our food producers, and sharing Filipino culinary excellence with the world.”
A major attraction of the event is the DOT’s Slow Food Travel Pavilion, which features immersive food experiences from the Cordilleras, NCR, CALABARZON, Central Visayas, and Western Visayas. Street food booths from all regions—including BARMM—also showcase dishes aligned with Slow Food principles.
With the theme “From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes & Traditions,” the event gathers farmers, fisherfolk, artisans, chefs, food communities, and policymakers from across the region to promote sustainable food systems.
Bacolod City, known for over 20,000 hectares of organic farmland and a strong tradition of food sustainability, serves as an ideal host. Negros Occidental’s marine reserves further highlight the importance of conservation and responsible tourism. “It’s very fitting that we celebrate this event in the City of Smiles,” Secretary Frasco said.
Throughout the five-day celebration, visitors can explore chef-led activities, Slow Food Travel tours, a Community Kitchen featuring dishes from 61 barangays, and a market promoting fresh, organic produce. The Slow Food movement, founded in Italy in 1989, aims to preserve local food cultures and promote clean, good, and fair food for all.
