BUSINESS

PBBM vows support for local efforts putting Pinoy food in global arena

Raffy Ayeng · Oct 30, 2026, 2:03 AM

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. beams with pride as he extolls world-class Filipino chefs and restaurants recognized by the iconic Michelin Guide, in its second-year Philippine restaurant by the MICHELIN Guide 2027 at the Manila Marriott Hotel, Pasay City on Thursday. — Photograph by Alvin Kasiban for DAILY TRIBUNE

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday vowed to support Filipino-owned restaurants and chefs who have been pushing Filipino cuisine to international travelers and the international culinary scene.

In his attendance at the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony of Manila and Environs at the Manila Marriott Hotel, Pasay City, he said that as the country is known for its beautiful islands, rich history, and a vibrant culture, Filipino cuisine can become another reason for travelers to visit, explore the regions, and stay longer.

He then extolled restaurant owners and Filipino chefs for promoting Filipino gastronomy and tourism, which reflect Filipino talents, creativity, and dedication.

The President also lauded the country’s hospitality industry’s gaining international recognition, noting that in 2026, nine Philippine hotels and resorts received Michelin keys.

“We want this growing interest in Philippine cuisine and hospitality to create opportunities for more Filipinos. At Gallery by Chele for example, Chef Chele Gonzalez showcases indigenous rice varieties from the Cordilleras, bringing greater attention to our local ingredients and the communities that produce them. Greater interest in Filipino cuisine can mean more opportunities for our farmers, our fisherfolk, food producers, and our MSMEs,” he said.

Vowed improvement in infrastructure

For the government’s part, the President said, “we will continue to improve infrastructure and air and sea connectivity to make (our) destinations more accessible.”

He also expressed “support for culinary education and skills development for aspiring chefs and hospitality professionals. As we strengthen our tourism industry, we hope to see more of the country represented in the international culinary scene. Beyond Manila and Cebu, more food destinations are waiting to be discovered,” he said.

“Our goal is to create an environment where Filipino talent and business can thrive, where culinary tourism brings more jobs and livelihoods to our communities. I thank the Michelin Guide for bringing its expertise and global perspective to the Philippines, helping introduce our culinary landscape to a wider international audience,” the President added.