The Philippines recently hosted the first United Nations Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Asia-Pacific, highlighting the country’s rich culinary heritage and promoting gastronomy tourism as a key driver for sustainable development in the region.
The forum, held in Manila from May 21-22, brought together government officials, tourism professionals, chefs, food enthusiasts, and experts from various countries to discuss the potential of gastronomy tourism in promoting cultural diversity, preserving traditional cuisines, and supporting local communities.
Gastronomy tourism, also known as culinary tourism, has been gaining popularity in recent years as travelers seek authentic food experiences that reflect the unique culture and traditions of a destination. The Philippines, with its diverse culinary landscape influenced by Spanish, Chinese, and Malay cultures, is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing trend.
During the forum, participants shared best practices and success stories in gastronomy tourism, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, the role of education and training in preserving culinary traditions, and the need for sustainable practices to protect the environment and support local communities.
The forum also featured cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and cultural performances showcasing the culinary diversity of the Asia-Pacific region. Participants had the opportunity to sample traditional Filipino dishes such as adobo, sinigang, and lechon, as well as regional specialties from other countries in the region.
In her opening remarks, World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of gastronomy tourism in promoting sustainable development and preserving cultural heritage. He praised the Philippines for its efforts to promote gastronomy tourism and urged other countries in the region to follow suit.
The forum concluded with the adoption of the Manila Declaration on Gastronomy Tourism, which calls for greater collaboration among countries in the Asia-Pacific region to promote gastronomy tourism as a tool for sustainable development. The declaration also highlights the role of gastronomy tourism in fostering cultural exchange, promoting social inclusion, and preserving traditional cuisines.
Overall, the first United Nations Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Asia-Pacific was a resounding success, showcasing the Philippines as a culinary destination and highlighting the potential of gastronomy tourism to drive economic growth, promote cultural diversity, and support sustainable development in the region. As the world continues to embrace the power of food as a tool for cultural exchange and economic development, the Philippines is well-positioned to lead the way in promoting gastronomy tourism in Asia-Pacific and beyond.
