Pampanga Vice Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda graced the Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair, whose grand opening was led by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and First Lady Liza Marcos. The event, held at SM Megamall, celebrates the Philippines’ rich culinary heritage and aims to empower local industries by showcasing regional specialties from across the country.

The Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair features 250 food-based micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) offering a diverse array of authentic regional delicacies from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. It serves as a platform to introduce these unique culinary offerings to a broader audience, fostering a greater appreciation for local flavors.

One of the event’s key highlights is the launch of the country’s first business-to-business (B2B) online marketplace, designed to connect MSMEs with global institutional buyers, thus opening new avenues for growth and market expansion.

In his speech, President Marcos encouraged Filipinos to support local cuisine, especially during National Food Month. “Many foreigners already admire the unique taste of our food, so I hope we, Filipinos, will also lead the way in recognizing and celebrating our various homegrown dishes,” he said.

Visitors to the fair can also visit the Kadiwa ng Pangulo booth, where affordable rice products are sold at ₱29 to ₱35 per kilogram, providing a cost-effective option for families.

Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the Bagong Pilipinas National Food Fair runs from April 9 to 13 at SM Megamall, offering a fantastic opportunity for food lovers and entrepreneurs alike to explore the diverse flavors and products that define the nation’s culinary landscape.