The USA Cheese Guild gathered experts in the culinary and trade sectors in an effort to bridge the gap in the rising demand for U.S. Dairy
Momentum is building for American dairy in the Philippines, and the USA Cheese Guild is moving to meet that surge by expanding its training programs and industry partnerships nationwide. As the country cements its place as one of Asia’s fastest-growing markets for U.S. agricultural products, cheese is emerging as a clear standout.
The Philippines now ranks ninth globally among destinations for U.S. agricultural exports, with shipments rising 33 percent between 2013 and 2023. Dairy has been a major driver of that growth. U.S. cheese exports to the Philippines jumped 24 percent in 2024 alone, buoyed by rising demand from Filipino consumers, chefs, and foodservice operators eager to explore new flavors and formats.
Fresh cheeses, led by cream cheese, continue to dominate volumes, while American varieties such as white cheddar, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack are steadily finding a place on local menus and retail shelves.
Consumer behavior underscores the opportunity. Research from the U.S. Dairy Export Council shows that cheese consumption among middle- to high-income urban Filipinos is nearly universal, with most consumers enjoying cheese at least once a week.
From Cream Cheese to Pepper Jack, USA Cheeses continue to make their mark in the Philippines — reflecting the growing local appetite for premium, versatile dairy products.
For restaurants, retailers, and manufacturers, that appetite translates into room for innovation, menu expansion, and premium offerings as Filipino palates grow more curious about different cheese styles and applications.
To support this shift, the USA Cheese Guild rolled out the USA Cheese Specialist Certification Program in 2024, designed to strengthen local expertise across the value chain. The program delivers focused training for culinary students, professional chefs, retailers, distributors, and importers, covering cheese families, handling and storage, applications, and pairings across five tailored learning tracks.
According to Chef Imran, the program goes beyond technical skills. By teaching proper handling and usage, it encourages chefs to experiment and create new flavor experiences that resonate with local diners.
Graduates leave with a deeper understanding of the heritage and craftsmanship behind American cheeses, practical insights into merchandising and pairings, and the confidence to use U.S. cheeses in both classic and contemporary dishes. More than 200 professionals have already completed the program, reflecting strong uptake from the Philippine culinary and retail community.
Retail leaders are seeing tangible value. Rowena Santiago, senior buyer of S&R Membership Shopping, noted that one of the program’s most eye-opening lessons is how U.S. cheeses can stand shoulder to shoulder with European counterparts in both quality and versatility.
At The Marketplace, merchandising director Karen Evangelista sees cheese as a natural fit for the growing demand for quick, convenient meals, particularly as in-store foodservice hubs expand and seek ingredients that deliver comfort, flavor, and perceived value.
Education is only one pillar of the Guild’s strategy. The organization is also working closely with retailers, distributors, and foodservice partners to share market insights, co-develop product applications, and strengthen links with U.S. suppliers. These efforts are complemented by consumer-facing initiatives that bring American cheeses directly to Filipino diners. Recent collaborations with Subway Philippines, including limited-edition sandwiches featuring U.S. cheeses, are designed to showcase both quality and versatility in familiar, accessible formats.
For the U.S. dairy industry, the long game is clear. Dali Ghazalay, regional director for Southeast Asia at USDEC, said the goal is to build a knowledgeable, well-supported ecosystem of culinary and trade professionals who understand the potential of cheese from the United States.
With the Philippines already among the top importers of U.S. dairy in the region, sustained investment in education and engagement is seen as the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth — and for a deeper appreciation of USA Cheeses among Filipino consumers.
More information on upcoming training programs and industry updates is available through the USA Cheese Guild’s LinkedIn page.