The Philippines will take the spotlight this November as it welcomes Terra Madre Asia & Pacific 2025, the region’s first edition of the world-renowned Slow Food gathering. Scheduled for November 19–23, the five-day festival will celebrate culinary traditions, food biodiversity, and sustainable practices under the theme “From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes and Traditions.”
The event, hosted at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, is expected to draw more than 2,000 delegates from over 20 countries, along with thousands of local visitors. Guests will include farmers, fishers, indigenous leaders, chefs, youth groups, scholars, and cultural advocates—all coming together to exchange knowledge, strengthen networks, and promote food systems rooted in tradition, fairness, and respect for the environment.
According to Ramon “Chin Chin” Uy Jr., Slow Food councilor for Southeast Asia, the festival will create a platform where grassroots knowledge can shape policy and tradition can fuel innovation. Paolo Di Croce, general director of Slow Food, added that the gathering will also launch strategic initiatives like Slow Food Travel and highlight the shared culinary heritage of Asia and the Pacific.
The event coincides with Bacolod’s official recognition as the Center for Sustainable Gastronomy and Negros Occidental’s title as the Organic Capital of the Philippines, building on the success of previous Terra Madre Visayas celebrations.
Festival-goers can expect a wide range of activities, including:
- Exhibits and themed spaces showcasing key staples such as rice, soy, taro, and spices.
- Educational programs for both children and adults on taste, biodiversity, and sustainable farming.
- Coffee-focused workshops, guided tastings, and live cooking demonstrations.
- Talks and conferences on sustainable agriculture and food innovation.
- Spaces dedicated to organic farmers, eco-friendly beverages, and local street foods.
One of the highlights will be a communal dining space featuring dishes prepared by all 61 barangays of Bacolod, offering visitors a chance to experience the city’s diverse culinary heritage in one place.
The program will also include an opening ceremony, official government welcome dinners, and exclusive ticketed dining events. The festival is being organized in partnership with Slow Food International, the city and provincial governments, national agencies, and local community groups.
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