There are many reasons to travel to the beautiful towns of Iloilo — from its rich history to the growing foodie scene. The richest of palates will surely enjoy what each town can offer in terms of its traditional cuisine highlighted in this annual three-day event that takes place every April in celebration of Filipino Food Month.
To appreciate and preserve Filipino culinary heritage, Presidential Proclamation No. 469 in 2018 declared April as Filipino Food Month.
NAMIT! began for Iloilo province to celebrate its food culture. This celebration brings the smells and tastes as you experience traditions from several provincial destinations. Food tourism is a real thing with many culinary explorers making entire trips out of visiting not just to explore their historical or natural attractions but also their gastronomic traditions.
NAMIT! now in its 4th year is a promise to gather with folks who are just like you and know the value of good food. It will be on April 22-24, 2024 at the North Point wing fronting Pan de Manila.
The family-friendly event features a cooking contest and an absolute delight to witness are the daily food demonstrations of local dishes to celebrate the town and the unique legacies of the families who prepared them. It is a chance to watch a cooking demonstration or maybe to take a class and extend your skills. You might be introduced to new ingredients or ways to prepare them. Come with an appetite and an expectation of new recipes you will be excited to replicate later.
This year, the event will highlight the culinary traditions of Balasan featuring Ginat-an nga Palaypay, Tambalang nga Dahon sang Abalong, and Adobo nga Puyoy on April 22 (Monday) at 1:30 p.m.; Day 2 (April 23) will feature Linabugan nga Bisaya nga Manok at 11:30 a.m. Pako-Pako Salad, and Sinapid nga Mais from the municipality of Calinog at 1:30 p.m.; Day 3 (April 24) will feature Tinagbakan nga Bisaya nga Manok from Lambunao, Iloilo and the cooking contest that will highlight Apan-Apan and Turon at 1:30 p.m.
Our food is a distinguishing element of our culture. It is a mix of tangible and intangible elements that contribute to our cultural values as Ilonggos and the characteristics of Iloilo.
NAMIT! is annually organized by the Iloilo Provincial Government through the Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region VI, and SM City Iloilo.
Text and photos by Bombette Golez Marin
