DOT hosts Madrid Fusion Manila anew

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines is once again hosting Madrid Fusion Manila, one of the biggest culinary events in the world.

Over 1,000 delegates from 13 countries are participating in the three-day event that started Wednesday. Attendees are expected to rise to as many as 1,500.

The second run of the Madrid Fusion Manila will bring together the world’s top-rated chefs and most acclaimed avant-garde chefs from across the globe.

“The Philippines is investing in bringing the country to the culinary and gastronomy map of the world. This is focused on bringing the rest of Asia and the rest of the world here,” Tourism Assistant Secretary Arturo Boncato Jr. said during the pre-event press conference.

The interaction between the East and the West will be highlighted at the second edition of the Madrid Fusion Manila in celebration of the 450th anniversary of the Galleon Trade that linked Asia to the Western World.

With the theme “The Manila Galleon: East meets West,” this year’s Madrid Fusion focuses on the influences made by two diverse parts of the world, particularly in the global gourmet scene as the aftermath of the Galleon Trade made strides in the worldwide culinary map.

Madrid Fusion became the entry point to strengthen the position of the Philippines as a center of modern gastronomy in Asia.

“Philippine cuisine will share the spotlight with the different cuisines of the world, as foreign celebrity chefs bring the influences of their culture to the table this year at Madrid Fusion Manila. Good food has always played a big part in the fun element of our culture and a vital component of Filipino hospitality,” Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said.

The event will feature landmark activities including the International Gastronomy Congress, where Michelin-star chefs globally will talk about progressive gastronomy and practices.

The trade exhibition will showcase the finest food and ingredients from Europe and Asia while Flavors of the Philippines will feature the diverse array of food-related activities in the country.

Madrid Fusion has been celebrated annually since 2003. The second run of the Madrid Fusion Manila will bring together the world’s top-rated chefs and most acclaimed avant-garde chefs from across the globe.