THE Department of Tourism (DOT) has signified its commitment to making the Philippines an international gastronomy hub, as Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco formally announces the hosting of the Philippines to the prestigious and inaugural Terra Madre Asia Pacific, which will be held next year in Bacolod City, now recognized as the Slow Food International Hub for Asia Pacific.
Terra Madre is a key part of Slow Food, a global grassroots organization founded in 1989, aimed at safeguarding food cultures and traditions, countering the fast-paced lifestyle, and rekindling people’s connection to the food they consume.
It also encourages a deeper understanding of food’s role in society. Since its inception, the movement has grown to attract millions of people across over 160 countries, advocating for access to food that is good, clean and fair for all.
According to Slow Food, food is not only about sustenance but is also intricately linked to culture, politics, agriculture and the environment. Through mindful food choices, individuals can collectively influence how food is cultivated, produced and distributed; thus, fostering positive change on a global scale.
Under the leadership of Secretary Frasco, the DoT, through its cultural tourism team, is actively developing food and gastronomy tourism as one of its priority subsectors with the commitment to preserving and promoting Filipino cuisine as an essential part of the nation’s cultural heritage. Part of its efforts is incorporating Slow Food principles to promote sustainable tourism within the food and gastronomy sector.
