By virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 469 signed in 2018, April of every year is declared as the Filipino Food Month or Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino. The national celebration of Filipino Food Month aims to appreciate, preserve, promote, and ensure the transmission of the vast Filipino culinary traditions and treasures to future generations and to support the various industries, farmers, and agri-communities.
The program which will run until April 30 also aims to showcase various local fresh produce and food products coming from the five provinces of Davao Region. It will also highlight Lutong Pinoy prepared by invitees coming from the hotel and restaurant industry, academe, Indigenous People (IPs) community and other sectors who will be serving regional cuisine sourced locally.
DOT 11 director Tanya Rabat said the activity will showcase and honor our vast culinary traditions and treasures, with Davao Region, being a melting pot of indigenous and Muslim cultures.
“We will not only be sampling different treats but also learn to appreciate the people who made them. In this way, we are able to preserve and promote these tangible legacies that for years continue to support various industries, our farmers and fisher folks, and other agri-communities,” Rabat said.
She said the celebration will also ensure the transmission of the skills and production of the unique commodities to the next generation.
Councilor Ralph Abella, chairperson of the 18th City Council Committee on Agriculture said the initiative does not only highlight the potential of Davao Region being a food basket of Mindanao but also recognizes the contribution of local food producers. He said Davao City takes pride in its agricultural products and the role of local farmers in ensuring food security in the region.
Abella in his speech during the opening said the local government’s unceasing efforts to sustain the agri-fishery industry help meet the food demands of consumers while supporting the continued growth of the local economy.
He said the city government remains committed to pushing for more programs advancing the agriculture sector of the city.
“We are confident that through our collective efforts and partnerships, we can continue to uplift the food industry for the benefit of every Dabawenyo across the region,” Abella said.