The first-ever Itik Cooking Contest was successfully held in Brgy. Lourdes, Minalin on the evening of February 5, 2026, as part of the week-long celebration of the barangay’s annual Barrio Fiesta.

The contest showcased duck (itik) as the main ingredient, highlighting the local duck-raising industry, which is one of the primary sources of livelihood for residents of the barangay. Twelve participants competed, presenting a variety of dishes including Pato Tim, Estopadong Itik, Hamonadong Itik, Adobong Gatang Itik, Itik Biryani, Ginataang Itik, Itik Shanghai, Roasted Itik, Itik Bicutan, and Drunken Duck in Coconut Milk.

The First Prize was awarded to Hamonadong Itik cooked by Jovelyn Ramin and James Fabian. The Second Prize went to Ginataang Itik prepared by Ronalyn Guevarra and Virginia Pesigan, while the Third Prize was awarded to Drunken Duck in Coconut Milk by Aaron Tibayan and Gabriel Tibayan.

The program aimed to further strengthen and promote the duck industry, recognizing it as an important part of the local economy and cultural identity of Brgy. Lourdes.

Minalin Mayor Philip Naguit congratulated the Brgy. Lourdes Fiesta Committee and the Barangay Council headed by Kap. Bong Fabian, together with the Sangguniang Kabataan led by SK Chairperson Ren Sawal for the successful staging of the event.

Barangay officials also expressed gratitude to all participants and supporters, emphasizing duck as a proud local product of Brgy. Lourdes.

More programs are expected to further boost local tourism and livelihood opportunities for the Minaleño community.