BACOLOD CITY – Bacolod City is preparing to host the first Terra Madre Asia-Pacific in November 2025, aiming to establish itself as a key player in the global slow food movement. Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez recently finalized a collaboration with Slow Food International to bring this significant event to the city. The partnership was announced during the Terra Madre Salone del Gusto in Turin, Italy.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Benitez, during his radio program, highlighted that Slow Food began in Europe with a mission to encourage sustainable gastronomy practices. Terra Madre is recognized as the largest event focused on food politics, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation. In Turin, the city showcased its local delicacies including coffee, cacao, lechon heirloom rice, langka salad, and chicken inasal at their ‘Salu-Salo: Philippines Good, Clean and Fair Fiesta!’ booth. The new agreement with Slow Food International, represented by Director General Paolo di Croce, and Negros Island Community Promoting and Preserving Traditional Food Inc., headed by Doreen Alicia Peña, aims to expand Slow Food programs across Negros.
The initiative plans to enhance food education, develop networks, host various events, and set up a Slow Food International office in Bacolod City. Philippine Consul General in Milan, Elmer Cato, praised the efforts of Slow Food Philippines in advocating environmental protection, cultural heritage, and improving food accessibility. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental expressed strong support for the slow food movement, emphasizing its significance in promoting sustainable food systems and celebrating local culinary heritage.
Di Croce expressed optimism about the future of the Terra Madre Asia-Pacific, envisioning it as a pivotal hub for the Slow Food movement globally.