The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), is set to organize a Philippine Food Festival in support of the country's participation in Expo 2020 Dubai.
The Philippine Food Festival, which will run from December 2021 to February 2022, aims to showcase the best of Filipino cuisine through various consumer activations. This will be part of the overall Philippine marketing strategy for the Expo that covers country branding, trade, tourism, investments promotion, Business to Consumer (B2C) activities, and the mounting of the Bangkota, the country’s national pavilion.
Filipino food sampling during the festival opening, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) National Day, in December will be lined up during the Food Festival. The special Bangkota Menu in selected hotels in Dubai and the UAE will be served with the design and fabrication of Food Boats inspired by Bangkota themes, with in-store promotions in major retail supermarkets, and co-branding partnerships and promotions with Filipino restaurants. An integrated marketing campaign will also be implemented to highlight Filipino food in major lifestyle magazines and digital channels.
"There is more to this food festival than just giving a glimpse of what Philippine culture is all about," said DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat. "Through food, we can share our story. And isn't it that when we share a meal, we forge a connection? This is what we intend to manifest because food brings us closer together," Puyat added.
Expo 2020 Dubai is expected to push through amidst the pandemic as the DOT, TPB and DTI remain steadfast in their commitment to promote the best of the Philippines.
