“A Taste of The Philippines” Brings Filipino Culture, Cuisine, and Destinations To Tokyo
Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano welcomed guests from the diplomatic corps, business, media, and city government at “A Taste of the Philippines,” on 13 November 2024 in Tokyo.
18 November 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in Japan and Sentro Rizal-Tokyo, in cooperation with the Philippine Department of Tourism-Tokyo and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), hosted “A Taste of the Philippines,” an evening dedicated to showcasing the diverse culture, world-class destinations, and rich culinary traditions of the Philippines. Held at the Hotel New Otani Tokyo on 13 November 2024, the event offered guests a truly unique Filipino cultural experience.
The evening highlighted the Philippines’ vibrant culinary diversity, with traditional Filipino dishes introduced by Chef Loida Ozaki. Guests were treated to flavors representing the country’s three main island groups.
The presentation on the island of Luzon featured popular dishes and destinations from Manila, Pampanga, Ilocos, and Laguna.
Representing the Visayas were Cebu, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental whose beaches and food scenes remain top attractions for foreign visitors.
The food and popular sites in Davao, Siargao, and the Bangsamoro region were spotlighted to represent Mindanao’s rising prominence in nature and cultural tourism.
“This is my first time [to] experience such a combination [of food] from the different islands,” remarked ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) Secretary-General KunihikoHirabayashi.
Adding to the cultural experience, the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies Cultural Dance Troupe performed Filipino dances from Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Actress and singer Maria Theresa Gow also graced the evening with a rousing performance of “Piliin mo ang Pilipinas” (Choose the Philippines) and the Department of Tourism’s campaign song, “Bisita, Be My Guest”.
“It is always a pleasure and privilege to share our country’s story with our friends here in Japan. We are grateful for the strong relationship our two countries share, and we look forward to building on this foundation, not only for stronger diplomatic ties but also for deeper connections between our peoples,” Philippine Ambassador to Japan Mylene J. Garcia-Albano stated. END
Singer and actress Maria Theresa Gow, with the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies Cultural Dance Troupe, gave special performances at “A Taste of the Philippines,” on 13 November 2024 in Tokyo.
Chef Loida Ozaki (rightmost) and Maria Theresa Gow (4th from right) lent their talents to the Philippine Embassy to showcase “A Taste of the Philippines,” on 13 November 2024 in Tokyo.
