President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is banking on the growing international recognition of Filipino cuisine to attract more tourists and create opportunities for local food producers.
“Now, our cuisine can become another reason for travelers to visit, explore our regions, and to stay longer,” Marcos Jr. said during the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony: Manila and Environs & Cebu 2027 in Pasay City on Thursday, Oct. 29.
The Philippines’ first MICHELIN Guide edition in 2025 recognized 108 establishments, including 25 Bib Gourmand selections and nine MICHELIN-starred restaurants.
“For a hundred years, the MICHELIN Guide has taken the world on a journey of great food. The Philippines joined that journey only last year, but Filipino cuisine is already finding its place at the table,” Marcos Jr. said.
He cited dishes such as adobo, kinilaw and sisig, as well as local ingredients, as ways to showcase Filipino food traditions to international diners. He also pointed to the use of indigenous rice varieties from the Cordilleras at Gallery by Chele.
The President said the growing interest in Filipino cuisine could benefit farmers, fisherfolk, food producers and small businesses.IMT
