MANILA, Philippines - For Alexander Roque Jr., chairman of Barangay Baritan in Malabon, regular diet of horsemeat is the secret of a long life, food that provides lasting stamina to active people.
“Horse meat has less cholesterol, its red meat is the favorite not only of men but also women in Malabon City,” he told The STAR in an interview.
Roque, who is also known as “Alex Kabayo” said his grandparents started the business of selling horse meat in the city. He said that the best recipe for horse meat is “tapang kabayo” (dried horse meat) “ which is available at the public market and restaurants in the city.
“We get our supply from a horse breeder in Quezon and Batangas, disabled horses in races.”
Although they no longer engage in the business today he continues to have a weekly diet of horse particularly during Saturdays when families gather and during special occasions. Aside from tapa horse recipe it also includes, adobo and kaldereta.
Roque said some of the oldest folks in the city are horsemeat eaters and they continue to have a diet of horse meat.
Rey Asistio, horse meat enthusiast, said for the last 20 years, he has been eating horse meat and found it very delicious and enhances body resistance particularly to minor illness.
“Lumalakas ako pag kumain ng kabayo” (I feel stronger when I eat horse meat).”
Eating horse meat is a long time tradition of the city.
Bong Padua, Malabon public Information officer, said it’s only in Malabon where the horse meat is a favorite delicacy.
“Tourists come to Malabon to have a taste of the favorite delicacy.”
Aside from its meat, the hair of the horse is a source of the best paint brushes while its skin is also a source of leather.