The regional office of the Department of Tourism (DOT 11) showcases the culinary traditions of the Davao Region with the opening of Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino at the activity center of Ayala Malls Abreeza on Friday.
In an effort to preserve and promote the rich culinary traditions, the DOT has joined hands once again with the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) in celebrating the Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Filipino, as their collaborative tribute to the diverse and abundant Philippine culinary heritage.
Tourism Undersecretary Myra Valderossa-Abubakar, Tourism 11 director Tanya Rabat-Tan, Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) Sec. Maria Belen Sunga-Acosta and Department of Agriculture 11 (DA 11) regional executive director Macario Gonzaga led the pulling of the bamboo strings signaling the opening of Kalutong Filipino in Davao City.
The activity, which will run until Sunday, aims to promote and preserve culinary traditions, support various agriculture and cultural communities, and ensure the transmission of these traditions to future generations.
The activity was highlighted with the presentations of the heritage dishes in the Davao Region: pichi pichi of Davao Oriental, a food that is usually served using locally grown ingredients like coconut; tamo-tamo of Davao Occidental, a traditional sweet treat that is popular and enjoyed by Saranganias; Althea’s crispy lechon ulo with vino oro, which is roasted to perfection resulting in a crispy golden skin and tender meat underneath; pastil of Davao City; ginataan karne baboy of Davao del Sur; and binaki of Davao del Norte, which is a steamed corn sweet tamales.
“But our heirloom dishes and local cuisines are more than just provisions – they’re a reflection of our history, culture, and identity. They empower and create the character of our communities, and help preserve cultural heritage while providing livelihood opportunities and sustenance in many rural areas,” said Rabat-Tan in her message.
Rabat-Tan also said local cuisines play a critical role in boosting the economy and promoting tourism.
Meanwhile, Gonzaga said the event is also an ideal venue for the farmers and fisherfolk to be recognized as producers of the main ingredients of dishes cooked and showcased as Davao’s pride.
“Today’s event is a manifestation of a unified effort of everyone be it the tourism industry, agriculture industry, the farmer-producers, the food industry, and or the consuming public,” he said.
In April 2018, former president Rodrigo Duterte signed Proclamation 469 declaring the month of April of every year as “Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino” or “Filipino Food Month.”
This year, the activity carries the theme “Kalutong Filipino, Lakas ng Kabataang Makabago.”
