BAGUIO CITY — The Department of Agriculture – Cordillera Administrative Region marked the culmination of Farmers’ and Fisherfolk’s Month with a grand celebration at the Melvin Jones Football Field.
The event aligned with the 1989 Presidential Proclamation No. 33, which aims to recognize and acknowledge the vital contributions of farmers and fisherfolk to the nation’s economic growth.
Highlighting the event was the debut of the “first of its kind Paella à la Cordillera,” a unique Cordilleran version of Paella Gigantes.
This culinary masterpiece was prepared using indigenous ingredients, including highland vegetables, Pinuneg (blood sausage), Kiniing (smoked meat), and Longanisa from the Cordillera.
The star of the dish was the Chong-ak heirloom rice from Kalinga Province.
Department of Agriculture regional executive director Jennilyn Dawayan conceived this creative idea to spotlight the distinct flavors of the Cordillera region.
She emphasized the goal of creating a farm-to-table experience that bridges the gap between restaurant owners, chefs, patrons, and the farmers, while promoting the region’s indigenous products.
The showcase was orchestrated in collaboration with Chef Waya Araos Wijangco of Gypsy Baguio, who advocates for community building and connections.
Renowned World Food Expo (WOFEX) personalities Harold Yu and Joel Pascual also played pivotal roles in the event.
“The goal is to encourage chefs to buy ingredients directly from the farmers”, Chef Waya said.
According to Chef Waya, sixteen executive chefs from leading hotels in Manila, including Hilton Hotel, participated in the celebration.
These chefs visited local farmers to forge connections, enhance the marketability of farm produce, and underscore the potential for innovation, market expansion, and sustainable practices in the agricultural sector.
Their efforts culminated in the preparation of the Paella Gigantes, which served approximately a thousand attendees.
In addition to the culinary showcase, a Serbisyo-Fair was held during the event.
Various bureaus and agencies attached to the Department of Agriculture demonstrated their technical expertise in agriculture.
The fair also provided a platform for farmers and fisherfolk to sell their produce through the ‘KADIWA ng Pangulo’ scheme, facilitating direct market access.
The celebration not only honored the hard work of farmers and fisherfolk but also highlighted the rich culinary heritage and agricultural potential of the Cordillera region.