President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. sees international recognition of Filipino cuisine opening more opportunities for local food businesses and attracting more tourists to the country.
Marcos Jr. made the observation during the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony: Manila and Environs & Cebu 2027 at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City on Thursday.
“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,” the President said.
The Philippines made its debut in the MICHELIN Guide in 2025, with 108 establishments recognized, including 25 Bib Gourmand selections and nine Michelin-starred restaurants.
Marcos Jr. cited popular Filipino dishes such as adobo, kinilaw and sisig as examples of the country’s rich culinary traditions and identity.
He also pointed to the use of local ingredients, including indigenous rice varieties from the Cordilleras, in restaurants such as Gallery by Chele.
The President said wider international recognition of Filipino food could benefit not only chefs and restaurant operators but also farmers, fisherfolk, food producers and micro, small and medium enterprises.
He added that the country’s culinary offerings could encourage foreign visitors to explore destinations beyond the major tourist centers.
“Now, our cuisine can become another reason for travelers to visit, explore our regions, and to stay longer,” Marcos Jr. said.
First Lady Louise Araneta Marcos and other government officials also attended the ceremony.IMT
