Sen. Nancy Binay: Filipino delicacies key to tourism promotion

Sen. Nancy Binay (Joseph Vidal/Senate Social Media Unit)

MANILA, Philippines — Local street delicacies  play a vital role in boosting the country’s tourism industry, Senator Nancy Binay said on Monday.

“Our street delicacies offer a raw and authentic glimpse into local cultures and flavors which showcase the heart and soul of a place,” said Binay, chairperson of the Senate’s panel on tourism, in a statement.

“Natutuwa po tayo at pati ang Presidente ay naa-appreciate ang patuloy na pagkilala sa iba’t ibang Pinoy street food bilang mahalagang sangkap sa pagpapangat ng ating turismo,” she added.

(We are glad that even the President appreciates the continued recognition for various Pinoy street food that serve as an important ingredient to boosting Philippine tourism.)

Binay’s remarks came after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. recently uploaded a ” Chibog ” vlog.”

In the vlog, Marcos underscored the vital role of gastronomic tourism, noting that food does “not only feed the stomach but also feed the soul.”

“Dati na po nating sinasabi na tulungan nating i-angat at i-level up ang kalidad ng pagkaing Pinoy dahil malaki ang potential ng food tourism, at isa rin itong powerful marketing tool,” said Binay.

(We have long been pushing for the government to enhance the quality of Filipino food because food tourism has great potential and is a powerful marketing tool.)

According to Binay, “the credit” should be given to “very creative” street vendors for transforming simple local ingredients “into bold, flavorful, satisfying taste, and a meaningful culinary adventure that is truly Pinoy.”

“Kung tutuusin, ‘yung authenticity and unpretentious nature ng ating street food sa bawat probinsya o rehiyon contribute to the Philippines’ rich tapestry of culinary traditions — our local offerings practically capture the essence of Filipino culture,” said Binay.

(Come to think of it, the authenticity and unpretentious nature of our street food in every province or region contribute to the Philippines’ rich tapestry of culinary traditions — our local offerings practically capture the essence of Filipino culture.)