The Filipino food industry and the restaurant community remain in deep mourning following the passing of renowned chef and restaurateur Margarita Forés.
The Department of Tourism (DOT), led by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, paid tribute to the culinary icon, recognizing her as a “trailblazer whose artistry and vision reshaped the way the world perceives Philippine gastronomy.”
"Chef Margarita championed the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage, not only as a celebrated chef but as a fierce advocate for the promotion of local food culture," DOT wrote in their official statement.
Forés played a key role in integrating gastronomy as a central pillar of Philippine tourism, most notably through the United Nations Tourism Regional Gastronomy Forum hosted by the country.
"Her dedication to showcasing the diverse and vibrant flavors of the Philippines helped shine a global spotlight on the country’s culinary excellence, inspiring a new generation of chefs and food lovers alike," the department added.
The Araneta Group, where Forés was a cherished member, also expressed their grief over her passing.
"The Araneta Group mourns the passing of our very own Margarita Araneta Forés. A beloved member of the Araneta family, Margarita was not only an award-winning chef but also an advocate of Filipino culture and a dear friend to all. Her love for food went beyond the kitchen—it was a way of uniting people, sharing stories, and creating memories."
The statement also highlighted her passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her craft, which touched the lives of Filipinos and people around the world.
"Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she inspired, in the meals she prepared with love, and in the beautiful moments she helped create. She will be deeply missed but always remembered with affection and gratitude."
Forés' only son, Amado, took to social media to express gratitude for the overwhelming messages of love and support, including a statement from The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, a prestigious independent group in global gastronomy that once recognized Forés for her excellence.
"We are deeply saddened to hear the sudden passing of Margarita Forés," the group wrote in an Instagram story shared by Amado.
"Named Asia's Best Female Chef in 2016, Forés was a beloved member of the 50 Best community and an inspirational culinary figure in the Philippines and beyond. Our love and thoughts go out to her family and many friends."
Many renowned Filipino chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts have taken to social media to remember Forés and celebrate her life.
The Moment Group, one of the country’s leading restaurant groups, simply commemorated her on their social media, marking her passing with a solemn tribute.
Food content creator Erwan Heussaff shared a heartfelt memory of Forés, recalling his first experience with her when he was a teenager.
“I first met Margarita when I was a young teenager. We were invited to her vacation home and my strongest memory from that trip was the breakfast that she served us. Talangka with fried rice sat on a table, surrounded by condiments, dried fish, and probably lots of other dishes that I can't now recall. Until this day, it's one of my strongest food memories.”
Heussaff also described Forés as one of the most generous and inspirational figures in the industry:
“Margarita is one of the few culinary icons that we had to look up to as we matured in the food industry. Not only did she create some of the most successful brands, but she was continuously curious about Filipino food and the ingredients that we have. It was like working with someone that you aspire to become.”
Celebrities Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos also expressed their love and admiration for the legendary chef.
Singer-actress Angeline Quinto shared how Forés inspired her secret dream of becoming a chef.
“Being a chef was my secret dream and it was because of you. Your work will remain an inspiration to many. Thank you, Chef Gaita. You will be missed.”
Celebrity doctor Vicki Belo posted a sentimental tribute on Instagram, recalling their collaboration for a magazine cover shoot.
“The Philippines just lost a national treasure in Margarita Forés. She was a true visionary who did so much for the elevation of Filipino cuisine. While Filipino food has always tasted good, she elevated it to look beautiful too and helped gain recognition worldwide.”
Belo further expressed her deep admiration for the late chef.
“She was a woman of so many talents and a truly amazing, generous heart. Every single time I saw her, I would thank her for doing so much for our country and tell her how much I admired her. Earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. It was such an honor to have known you, Margarita.”
Forés was named as Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016, she was highly respected in the international restaurant industry. She also ran several successful restaurants and was the caterer of choice for visiting dignitaries.
Born into a prominent clan—the founders of Araneta Center in Quezon City—Forés initially pursued a corporate career in the U.S. before following her passion for cooking in her late 20s. She moved to Italy to immerse herself in its cuisine, which later defined her culinary style.
Her flagship restaurant, Cibo, opened in 1997 and revolutionized Manila’s dining scene. It was later joined by Lusso, Grace Park, The Loggia at Palacio de Memoria, and her catering company Cibo di Marghi.
Beyond the restaurant industry, Forés was recognized internationally. She was knighted by the Italian government for promoting Italian cuisine and culture and was named a United Nations Ambassador for Gastronomic Tourism in 2019.
Forés was also a two-time cancer survivor, embodying resilience both in life and in the kitchen.
Beyond her accolades, Forés' true legacy lies in the impact she left on the Filipino culinary world, inspiring generations of chefs, restaurateurs, and food lovers.
Her influence will forever be etched in Philippine gastronomy, with her love for food, culture, and country living on in every dish, every flavor, and every story shared around the table.