Long lines formed at the Philippine pavilion at the Terra Madre Salone del Gusto 2024 in Turin, Italy, where Filipino lechon became the star attraction. With over 3,000 delegates from 120 countries showcasing culinary heritage from around the world, the Philippine delegation drew considerable attention for its authentic and diverse offerings, especially the roast pig on a spit, a staple of Filipino fiestas.
Photo courtesy: esquiremag.ph
Reena Gamboa, president of Slow Food Movement Negros, shared on social media how the lechon booth became a magnet for attendees. “You can’t go wrong when there’s lechon, whether in the Philippines or in Turin,” Gamboa noted, emphasizing the enthusiastic response from the international crowd. She described the long line of eager visitors waiting for a taste of the iconic dish.
Philippine Consul General to Milan Elmer G. Cato echoed this sentiment, highlighting how the country’s participation elevated the profile of Filipino cuisine in Italy. “It was a proud moment for the Philippines at Terra Madre, seeing hundreds of Italians and other visitors line up to have a taste of Filipino food,” Cato said.
Apart from lechon, the Philippine pavilion featured a variety of other beloved Filipino dishes, including Chicken Inasal, Adobong Bisayas, Beef Caldereta, Seafood Sinigang using batuan fruit, batchoy, kinilaw, criollo cacao hot chocolate, heirloom rice, native vinegar, and Philippine coffee. These culinary treasures represented various regions, from Cavite, Negros Island, and Panay Island, to the Cordilleras, showcasing the depth of the country’s food culture.
The event, which ran from September 26 to 30, reinforced the rich, flavorful diversity of Filipino cuisine on the world stage.
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