By The Philippines recently hosted the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific, marking a significant milestone in the region’s tourism and culinary sectors. Held in Cebu from June 26-27, 2024, the event brought together over 600 delegates from around the world, including ministers, tourism experts, and culinary professionals. The forum aimed to highlight the role of gastronomy tourism in sustainable development, cultural exchange, and economic growth, while also promoting the rich culinary heritage of the Asia-Pacific region.
The forum kicked off with a grand display of Cebu’s culinary delights, showcasing the diverse and rich gastronomic traditions of the Philippines. Delegates were treated to a variety of local dishes, including the iconic pusô, a rice cake made by boiling rice in a woven pouch of palm leaves. This culinary showcase not only highlighted the Philippines’ vibrant food culture but also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting local culinary traditions.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in discussions and workshops focused on the potential of gastronomy tourism to drive sustainable development. Experts shared insights on how local food traditions can be leveraged to attract tourists, create jobs, and support local economies. The forum also emphasized the need for responsible tourism practices that protect the environment and promote cultural heritage.
Building a Sustainable Future
One of the key themes of the forum was the role of gastronomy tourism in building a sustainable future. Speakers highlighted the importance of using local ingredients, reducing food waste, and promoting environmentally friendly practices in the culinary industry. The forum featured a panel discussion on innovative strategies for sustainable gastronomy tourism, with examples from Japan, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.
The event also saw the launch of the Cebu Call to Action, a document outlining a roadmap for resilient and sustainable food tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. This initiative aims to encourage collaboration among countries in the region to develop policies and practices that support sustainable tourism and protect local food traditions. The call to action was endorsed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and other international bodies.
Promoting Cultural Exchange
The forum provided a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together culinary experts and tourism professionals from different countries to share their knowledge and experiences. Participants had the opportunity to learn about the culinary traditions of other cultures and explore new ideas for promoting gastronomy tourism in their own countries. The event also featured cooking demonstrations and tastings, allowing delegates to experience the flavors of the Asia-Pacific region firsthand.
In addition to promoting cultural exchange, the forum aimed to foster partnerships and collaborations among countries in the region. By working together, countries can develop joint initiatives to promote gastronomy tourism and enhance the overall tourism experience for visitors. The forum concluded with a commitment from all participants to continue working towards a more sustainable and inclusive future for gastronomy tourism in the Asia-Pacific region.