#Philippines #Bacolod #Terra Madre #Slow Food #Bacolod City

Introduction

In a landmark event for sustainable gastronomy, Bacolod City in the Philippines is set to host the very first Terra Madre Asia & Pacific from November 19 to 23, 2025. As Asia's largest gathering of this nature, it promises to celebrate food biodiversity, sustainable practices, and cultural traditions. Organized by Slow Food, this gathering aims to connect farmers, chefs, indigenous leaders, and food advocates from across the Asia-Pacific region.

The Theme: From Soil to Sea

Under the thought-provoking theme, "From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes and Traditions," the event seeks to address critical topics such as sustainable food systems, environmental stewardship, and the importance of preserving local culinary heritage.

The five-day event, which will take place at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, expects participation from around 2,000 delegates from over 20 countries including India, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. This multicultural interaction promises to enrich discussions and ideas shared throughout the gathering.

A Platform for Change

Ramon "Chin Chin" Uy Jr., Slow Food Councilor for Southeast Asia, expressed the significance of this event for the region, noting that it provides a vital space for grassroots wisdom to influence policy-making in sustainable food practices. It's an opportunity for Asia-Pacific to take a wealthier role in the global conversation about food sustainability and security.

A Hub of Activities

Terra Madre Asia & Pacific is designed as a rich platform for experiences ranging from immersive exhibitions to educational workshops. Key highlights include:

• - Foodways Exhibition: Focusing on four staples of the region—rice, spices, soy, and taro—this exhibit will showcase their deep cultural connections and commonality in agricultural practices across the Asia-Pacific.
• - Education Pavilion: With programs aimed at all ages, the pavilion will enhance understanding of biodiversity and encourage conscious food choices.
• - Slow Food Coffee Coalition: Participants can engage in a sensory journey that delves into coffee traditions and fair practices through tastings and workshops.
• - Public Talks and Conferences: These forums will be pivotal in discussing climate resilience, food justice, and sustainable agricultural techniques, featuring prominent voices from multiple sectors.
• - Community Kitchen: A living testament to local heritage, this kitchen will welcome chefs from all corners of Bacolod to share traditional dishes, showcasing the city's rich culinary diversity.

A Culinary Showcase

Expect a stellar lineup of renowned international and local chefs who will represent a melting pot of gastronomical excellence. The event features chefs like Johanne Siy from Singapore and notable Negrense chefs who will demonstrate local culinary techniques and ingredients.

Collaborative Efforts

The success of Terra Madre Asia & Pacific hinges on a collaborative framework involving local government, various sectors, and community organizations, all committed to fostering sustainable food practices.

Conclusion

The inaugural Terra Madre Asia & Pacific is anticipated to revolutionize the way we discuss and practice sustainable gastronomy. As the Philippines takes center stage in this global dialogue, it reinforces the importance of valuing food in the context of environmental sustainability and cultural identity. This monumental event not only heralds a new chapter for Slow Food in Asia but sets a standard for future gatherings, fostering a global community committed to food diversity and sustainable living.