The 5th Kalutong Filipino opened on Friday here with a focus on the preservation of heirloom cuisines and heritage dishes.

Slated from April 19 to 21, the event aims to empower the youth to promote Philippine culinary heritage with a hope that it will be passed on to the next generations.

In her message, Department of Tourism in Davao Region (DOT-11) Director Tanya Rabat-Tan said that heirloom dishes and local cuisines are more than just provisions – “they’re a reflection of 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. Moreover, they play a critical role in boosting the economy and promoting tourism,” Tan said.

To preserve and promote the region’s rich culinary traditions, Tan said they have joined hands once again with the National Commission for the Culture and the Arts and the Department of Agriculture (DA) as they celebrate the Filipino Food Month, or the Buwan ng Kalutong Filipino.

“This year, we invite you to embark with us on a gastronomic journey through Davao Region as we experience our provinces’ traditional cuisines and gain insights from renowned local gastronomy experts in the next three days,” Tan said, adding that, it will also reflect to their appreciation on the homegrown produce and products of the local farmers and artisans.

Meanwhile, DA-11 Director Macario Gonzaga said the event is a good venue for the farmers and fisherfolk to be recognized as producers of the main ingredients of dishes cooked and showcased as Davao’s pride.

“The event is another way of intensifying our common advocacy to mold the young generation to understand the vital roles that they play as the future food producers of this nation,” Gonzaga said.

April is declared Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino under Presidential Proclamation No. 469, signed in 2018. (PNA)