Capping off the celebration of Filipino Food Month (FFM) this April is the re-launch of the Ang Sarap! Philippine Food Festival, a vibrant event aimed at showcasing the diverse flavors, ingredients, and culinary heritage of the Philippines.

Organized by the Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Service of the Department of Agriculture (DA-AMAS), the festival was a proof to the country's rich culinary traditions and the strength of its young generation.

“In our efforts to honor Filipino cuisine and culture, the DA family reveres our local farmers, fisherfolk, animal raisers, agripreneurs, food processors, and culinary geniuses as they bear the arduous task of producing sufficient, safe, nutritious, and delicious food for every table. They are our food heroes who transform our nation’s humble harvests into hearty meals that radiate the warmth, joy, and pride of being a Filipino,” said Engr. Christopher V. Morales, CESO II, Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development on behalf of DA Secretary Tiu Laurel.

FFM, celebrated annually in April following the signing of Proclamation No. 469, is a nationwide initiative dedicated to raising appreciation, preserving, and promoting Filipino cuisine. This year's theme, "Kalutong Filipino, Lakas ng Kabataang Makabago" (Filipino Cooking, Strength of the Modern Youth), reflects the vibrancy of Filipino cooking and the innovative spirit of the younger generation.

The formal launch of Ang Sarap! Philippine Food Festival was marked by the DA's commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and profitability. Sec. Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. outlined a four-year plan aimed at creating more opportunities for the agri-fishery and food industries, enhancing global competitiveness, and ensuring food security nationwide.

The trade fair featured 65 booths representing regional participants from all over the country. These included DA regional exhibitors, beneficiaries of the Young Farmers Challenge, partners of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement, as well as various farmers and fisher enterprises. Each booth offered a wide array of traditional Filipino dishes, highlighting the culinary diversity found across the Philippines.

In addition to the culinary delights, Ang Sarap! served as a learning hub for food producers, experts, advocates, and enthusiasts alike. The event featured a series of fora and cooking demonstrations where attendees could learn about traditional cooking techniques, indigenous ingredients, and sustainable farming practices.

Attendees left with a deeper appreciation for the rich variety of flavors that make up Filipino cuisine. With events like Ang Sarap! Philippine Food Festival leading the way, the future of Filipino food looks brighter and more innovative than ever. (AVS/PIA-NCR/DA)