Philippines Launches Culinary Tourism Roadmap

The Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) introduced a strategic plan aimed at making the country a premier food and gastronomy destination in Southeast Asia by 2029 on May 28. The Food and Gastronomy Tourism Strategic Framework and Roadmap 2024-2029 outlines plans to establish culinary hubs in key areas such as Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cebu, and Iloilo.

This initiative will draft guidelines for creating food circuits nationwide and assist local governments in developing travel itineraries that showcase culinary diversity and local produce. The plan also encompasses the development of tourism segments focusing on farm, factory, and market tours.

Historical Significance

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco highlighted that this development marks the first time food and gastronomy has been regarded as a core aspect of the national tourism agenda. She emphasized the untapped potential of Filipino cuisine and the aim to draw both local and foreign tourist interest across the archipelago.

Frasco stated, “This is a historic moment. For the first time, gastronomy has been formally incorporated in the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP), not as an afterthought, but as a central pillar of our tourism strategy.”

Training modules to enhance market tourism are also being introduced as part of a broader effort to redefine local markets as tourist attractions. The DOT envisions a culinary tourism experience that not only invites travelers to sample Filipino dishes but also to explore the stories behind local ingredients and culinary traditions.

The roadmap will frame gastronomy tourism as part of the Cultural Tourism initiative within the 2023-2028 NTDP, connecting it with historical, artistic, and creative tourism ventures.