The DA-BPI (Bureau of Plant Industry) participated in the 2025 Filipino Food Month (FFM) media launch held on March 21, 2025, at the Manila Prince Hotel, Ermita. This year’s theme, “Sarap ng Pagkaing Pilipino, Yaman ng Ating Kasaysayan, Kultura, at Pagkatao,” highlights the richness of Filipino cuisine as a reflection of the nation’s history, culture, and identity.
In line with this, various agencies and bureaus, including the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Department of Tourism (DOT), the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement (PCHM), have collaborated to celebrate the event. The DA-BPI also took the opportunity to distribute seeds during the event as part of its advocacy for agricultural sustainability.
ASEC Genevieve E. Velicaria-Guevarra, Chairperson of the DA FFM National Steering Committee, emphasized the significance of Presidential Proclamation No. 469, series of 2018, which designates April as Filipino Food Month to promote Filipino cuisine as a vital part of the country’s national heritage. More so, it is partnered with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) last 2021 between DA, DOT, NCCA, and the PCHM.
Moreover, she also underscored the deeper meaning of Filipino cuisine, stating:
“Food is not just sustenance but a living testament to our nation’s journey, diverse traditions, and shared values as Filipinos. It connects us to our ancestors and reminds us of the resilience, ingenuity, and warmth that define us as a people. More than history, our cuisine is a symbol of our culture—one that celebrates unity and diversity. Philippine food is a melting pot of traditions, yet it remains uniquely ours, marked by deep respect for family, hospitality, and bayanihan. More importantly, our food represents our identity; in every bite, we taste the craftsmanship of our farmers, the dedication of our fishermen, and the artistry of our local chefs.”
She then took the opportunity to invite everyone to take part in this year’s celebration:
“This year, as we embark on a month-long journey of food festivals, culinary exhibits, cooking demonstrations, and educational forums, we invite every Filipino to help preserve and promote our food heritage. Sa buwan ng Abril, sama-sama nating lasapin ang sarap ng pagkaing Pilipino at alalahanin na ito ay yaman ng ating kasaysayan, kultura, at pagkatao. Muli, maraming salamat.”
The event also unveiled the new FFM logo, which holds the three colors of the Philippine flag and shows the symbol of unity and identity. It also represents the the different products and agricultural food crops found in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. This new logo exhibits a call to action to preserve and nurture the Filipino food.
The 2025 Filipino Food Month will officially commence on April 4 with a grand nationwide launch at the Quezon Provincial Capitol Grounds, kicking off a month-long celebration of culinary excellence and cultural heritage.
The 2025 Filipino Food Month (FFM) celebrates the deep connection between Filipino cuisine, agriculture, and cultural heritage, emphasizing the role of local produce in shaping the nation’s identity. Through this event, DA-BPI reinforces its commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector while ensuring that traditional flavors continue to thrive for future generations.