CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 sets a diverse table as the industry elevates culinary tourism for all.
DOT-10 Regional Director Marie Elaine Unchuan presented its accomplishments during the seventh episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on Tuesday, July 9.
Highlighting DOT’s 7-Point Agenda, particularly in culinary tourism, DOT-10 promotes cultural understanding with a focus on culinary and gastronomy tourism, emphasizing Muslim-friendly options.
From delectable food crawls to international recognition, DOT-10 is putting Northern Mindanao on the map as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts of all backgrounds.
Unchuan also encouraged the media to help in promoting the beauty of Mindanao.
“We are very proud Mindanaoans. One of the ways we can help our country and how we can help our beloved Mindanao is to be tourism ambassadors. Huwag maging dayuhan sa Northern Mindanao (Do not be a foreigner in Northern Mindanao),” she added.
The department has actively championed culinary tourism through initiatives like the Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Food Crawl, where the program allows visitors to embark on a delicious journey, sampling the region’s diverse cuisine from local vendors and restaurants.
Recognizing the growing importance of Muslim-friendly travel, DOT-10 has also dedicated efforts to promoting Halal culinary offerings. It includes supporting and participating in events like the Bismillah and the Salaam Halal Food Festival, which showcase unique flavors and preparation methods of Muslim cuisine for Muslim travelers while inviting everyone to experience local traditions.
DOT-10 also presented Northern Mindanao’s unique gastronomic dishes at the UNWTO UN Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia-Pacific held in Cebu City on June 26-27, 2024. This event allowed DOT-10 to share the region’s culinary heritage with a global audience. (ADJ/PIA-10)
