The Philippines has been selected to host the 2026 UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, solidifying its rise as a global culinary destination, the Department of Tourism (DOT) announced.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said the hosting marks a major recognition of the country’s role in advancing food, culture, and sustainable tourism.

“The Philippines is the perfect venue for the 2026 UN Tourism World Gastronomy Forum — where the world can gather to share, taste, and celebrate food as a bridge between cultures,” Frasco said. “More importantly, this recognition places our country at the forefront of global gastronomy and sustainable tourism.”

The 10th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will gather chefs, policymakers, tourism leaders, and cultural advocates from more than 150 countries to discuss how food tourism can generate inclusive growth, protect heritage, and strengthen community livelihoods.

Culinary recognition grows

Frasco said the hosting reflects the Philippines’ growing profile as a gastronomy hub, following the entry of the Michelin Guide and global attention to Filipino chefs and restaurants. The DOT has been developing food and cultural tourism under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028.

In 2024, the Philippines hosted the first UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu, which led to the Cebu Call to Action promoting gastronomy tourism as a sustainable development tool.

Data from the Philippine Tourism Satellite Account shows food and beverage services accounted for 8.04% of Tourism Direct Gross Value Added and 17.1% of inbound tourist spending in 2024, underscoring how cuisine drives traveler experience and local business.

UN Tourism welcomes PH leadership

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, in a letter to Frasco, affirmed the Philippines’ readiness to host, citing its “commitment to advancing tourism through gastronomy” and efforts to strengthen local food systems and cultural identity.

“The Forum will offer a unique platform to showcase the country’s leadership in gastronomy tourism and to shape global dialogue and cooperation around sustainable and inclusive food and tourism systems,” he said.

Celebrating food, identity, and livelihood

Frasco said preparations for 2026 will highlight Filipino cuisine as both a cultural treasure and an economic driver.

“Filipino cuisine is a source of identity, livelihood, and cultural pride,” she said. “Every Filipino dish tells a story — one of hope, heritage, and hospitality.”

“We look forward to welcoming the world to the Philippines, where every meal is shared with love,” she added.