‘Elevate street food for locals, tourists’

MANILA, Philippines — Mayors and governors should help boost Philippine tourism by elevating the quality of street food for locals and tourists alike, Sen. Nancy Binay said following President Marcos’ latest vlog.

Marcos talked about gastronomic tourism in his latest vlog titled “Chibog” (Filipino slang for “eat”) posted on his YouTube channel on Sunday.

Filipino street delicacies offer a raw and authentic glimpse into local cultures and flavors, which showcase the heart and soul of a place, Binay said.

Local government units (LGUs) could help boost tourism by helping food hawkers in terms of training, sanitation and safety practices, food preparation, handling and serving, she added.

“We are glad that even the President appreciates the continued recognition of various Pinoy street foods as an important ingredient in boosting our tourism,” Binay said.

Street food stall “Diwata Pares Overload” in Pasay City went viral on social media, with people lining up for over two hours to eat beef stew, crispy pork and fried chicken.

“Street food culture has untapped tourism potential. We must support small vendors because they are also an important part of the local economy. The LGUs can help identify vending and no-vending zones so that the flow of people and traffic is also smooth, especially now that the street food adventure is very much alive,” Binay said.

“One day we can organize one big culinary event where LGUs from all over the country can showcase their best Filipino beef stews and local menus in one street food festival and call it ‘Jollyjeep Jamboree,’ ‘Usok-Tusok’ or ‘Pares Olympics!’ The possibilities are grand,” Binay said.

Meanwhile, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco yesterday expressed gratitude to Marcos for endorsing the country’s gastronomy tourism. — Mark Ernest Villeza