BACOLOD CITY-The Philippines’ successful bid to host the 2025 Terra Madre Asia Pacific in Bacolod City is slated to elevate Negros Island to a prominent position on the global culinary tourism map:he Philippines’ successful bid to host the 2025 Terra Madre Asia Pacific in Bacolod City is slated to elevate Negros Island to a prominent position on the global culinary tourism map, according to the Philippine Embassy in Italy. The event, organized by Slow Food International, marks the first time the Terra Madre series will be held in Asia Pacific, specifically in Bacolod, underscoring the region’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant agricultural sector.
According to Philippines News Agency, the choice of Bacolod City as the venue for the event reflects the city’s and Negros Island’s strong potential to become the “Slow Food Capital” of the Philippines. The region is recognized for its commitment to sustainable and organic food and farming practices, attracting culinary tourists and advocates from around the world
. Philippine Ambassador to Italy Neal Imperial highlighted this potential following the country’s participation in the 2024 Terra Madre Salone del Gusto in Italy, where the Philippines showcased its culinary heritage and leadership in sustainable food practices.
Ambassador Imperial emphasized the significance of this event in the context of global food security challenges exacerbated by climate change. He noted that the fundamental solutions advocated at Terra Madre, focusing on respecting and healing Mother Earth, are critical at this juncture. The ambassador expressed optimism about the Philippines taking a leading role in the slow food movement in Southeast Asia, particularly through its upcoming role as host.
The 2024 Terra Madre Salone del Gusto also featured a special booth dedicated to Slow Food in the Philippines, where Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez hosted a ‘salo-salo’ (feast) that included talks by notable Filipino culinary figures and showcased a variety of authentic Filipino dishes
. This event not only highlighted the rich culinary traditions of Negros but also its biodiversity, featuring ‘Ark of Taste’ products native to the region.
Further cementing its commitment to slow food principles, on September 27, Bacolod City was declared the ‘HUB of Slow Food Asia.’ Mayor Benitez led the signing of a memorandum of agreement with Slow Food International and Negros Island Community Promoting and Preserving Traditional Food, Inc., which aims to develop comprehensive Slow Food Programs on the island. This includes promoting food education, building networks, hosting events, and establishing a Slow Food International Office in Bacolod City.