Malabon's Culinary Heritage: A Delicious Boost for Philippine Tourism

Malabon's Culinary Heritage Takes Center Stage in Philippine Tourism Push Malabon, Philippines – The Department of Tourism (DOT) is highlighting the Philippines' rich culinary heritage as a key driver of tourism, with Malabon City serving as a prime example. A recent GMA Integrated News report showcased the city's unique dishes, including the popular Pancit Malabon and Okoy, both traditional and beloved by locals. "The Department of Tourism wants to strengthen food and gastronomy tourism in the Philippines," explained Sec. Christina Frasco, DOT Secretary, in an interview featured in the report. "The delicious diversity across our regions represents our history and heritage." The video detailed the preparation of these dishes, emphasizing the use of fresh, local ingredients. Jay-R Yuzon, owner of the popular Okoy stand in Malabon's Concepcion market, highlighted the secret to his success: "The secret is everything being fresh, especially the shrimp. It's a big hit, not just in Malabon, but across Metro Manila." The report also showcased the "Palengke Tourism" aspect of the initiative, aiming to make local markets tourist destinations. The initiative aims to create a unique and immersive experience for tourists, allowing them to engage directly with local culture and cuisine. The DOT's initiative to promote culinary tourism is a significant step towards diversifying the tourism sector and boosting the local economy. By highlighting the unique culinary traditions of cities like Malabon, the Philippines aims to attract a wider range of tourists and showcase the country's cultural richness.