In celebration of Filipino Food Month, the seventh Mangan Taku Cordillera Food Fair officially began Thursday, April 23, at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park, Baguio City.
With the theme, "Preserving Traditions, Sustaining Flavors," the Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR), in partnership with the Baguio City government, is hosting 46 exhibitors from the six provinces of the Cordillera.
Slow Food Communities across the region, as well as participants from Cagayan Valley and Ilocos Norte are also showcasing various traditional cuisines and heirloom dishes to promote the culinary tourism and gastroeconomy of the regions.
The event opened with performances by the University of Baguio Voices Chorale and UBBUK Cultural Group. This was followed by a welcome message from Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who expressed his encouragement to explore the stories behind the flavors.
"Let us celebrate the creativity, passion, and hard work of the people who make Cordilleran cuisines truly exceptional," Magalong said.
Other officials sharing messages of support and appreciation included DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovita Ganongan; Ryan Javier, representing Baguio Rep. Mauricio Domogan; Ramon Uy, Jr., international councilor of Slow Food Southeast Asia; and Marichu Tellano, deputy executive Director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.
Renowned chefs Bong Sagmit, Waya Araos-Wijangco, and Dedet de la Fuente held demonstrations of their specialty dishes fused with regional flavors to create innovative delicacies. This was followed by the “Parade of Flavors” from the participating exhibitors and a food tasting for guests and food advocates.
The fair aims to promote the preservation and appreciation of regional traditions through diverse Cordilleran cuisines.
The Mangan Taku Cordillera Food Fair will run from April 23 to 27, 2026.
Written by Francine Wayas, Insight PH
Francine Wayas, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
