DOT-sponsored food fest highlights NegOcc’s ‘great culinary scene’

BACOLOD CITY—Negros Occidental’s reputation when it comes to good food is being highlighted during the three-day “Kaon Na ‘Ta” Food and Travel Festival, which started on Wednesday afternoon at Ayala Malls Capitol Central here.

Tourism Undersecretary Arturo Boncato Jr., who declared the opening of the festival, said visitors expect the food in the province to be of high standards.

“We always look forward to the really delicious and wonderful food here,” Boncato said, noting that 22 exhibitors are participating in the event. “It is fitting that the last edition of the festival is celebrated in this beautiful city of Bacolod and province of Negros Occidental.”

In his speech, Boncato said, the vision of the DOT is to celebrate Filipino cuisine not only in Metro Manila, but in all regions of the country.

Most important, they are also looking at celebrating the whole ecosystem supporting Filipino cuisine, he added.

Boncato said food and culinary, along with farm tourism, is fast-becoming a major player in the mainstream global tourism industry.

These products attract the new generation of travelers looking for a more customized, interactive and meaningful celebration, experiences and destinations, he noted.

“The Department of Tourism believes that Negros Occidental and Bacolod City fit such profile. That this destination is not only proud of its heritage and culture, but also of its great culinary scene,” Boncato said.

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo G. Marañon Jr. said one of the province’s strength is food, particularly its freshness.

“Most of our fellows in Metro Manila want to eat here because of our fresh farm and sea-to-table food,” Marañon said adding that Negrenses really have the passion in preparing good cuisine. PNA