A New Dawn for Sustainable Gastronomy in Asia-Pacific
Bacolod City is gearing up to host the inaugural Terra Madre Asia & Pacific, an event dedicated to promoting sustainable gastronomy. Scheduled for November 2025, this landmark gathering, powered by the global initiative founded by Slow Food, promises to be a transformative experience for participants from around the region.
The Theme: From Soil to Sea
Under the captivating theme, “From Soil to Sea: A Slow Food Journey Through Tastes and Traditions,” Terra Madre Asia & Pacific (TMAP) will unite farmers, fishers, chefs, academics, and cultural advocates. The aim is to celebrate food biodiversity while fostering sustainable food systems based on tradition and environmental care.
A Five-Day Celebration of Culinary Diversity
The event will unfold over five exciting days at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, hosting around 2,000 delegates from more than 20 countries, including notable participants from Australia, New Zealand, and various nations in Asia. Attendees can expect immersive exhibits, tantalizing tastings, engaging conferences, and community meals that are set to draw thousands of visitors eager to explore the vibrant food culture of the Asia-Pacific region.
Ramon 'Chin Chin' Uy Jr., Slow Food Councilor for Southeast Asia, emphasizes, "This gathering represents not just an evolution for Slow Food in this region but also a pivotal moment for our global food narrative. The voices of grassroots movements will influence policy decisions, showcasing how community traditions can drive innovation. Asia and the Pacific are ready to take their rightful place in global discussions on sustainable food practices.”
A Milestone in the Slow Food Movement
Paolo Di Croce, General Director of Slow Food, highlights, "The first Terra Madre Asia & Pacific is a remarkable chapter for our movement. It serves as a platform to celebrate diverse culinary traditions that connect our communities while addressing pressing global challenges through food.”
Bacolod City: The Center for Sustainable Gastronomy
TMAP 2025 will officially designate Bacolod City as the Center for Sustainable Gastronomy and recognize Negros Occidental as the Organic Capital of the Philippines. This inaugural event is an extension of the previously successful Terra Madre Visayas events held in recent years, designed to shine a spotlight on the food systems in the Asia-Pacific region.
Thematic Highlights of the Event
Participants can look forward to meticulously organized thematic spaces that celebrate the rich food cultures across Asia-Pacific:
- Foodways Exhibition: Showcasing essential staples like Southeast Asian rice and South Asian spices, this exhibit explores how these foods contribute to cultural identity and biodiversity through interactive displays and storytelling.
- Education Pavilion: Offering programs designed for all ages, the pavilion focuses on taste education, empowering participants to understand biodiversity and make informed dietary choices.
- Slow Food Coffee Coalition: Visitors can embark on a journey from farm to cup, participating in tastings and workshops centered around coffee traditions and fair practices.
- House of Slow Food: A central area focused on the philosophies of Slow Food and initiatives at the global and regional levels.
- Public Talks and Conferences: A space for farmers, indigenous leaders, and policymakers to discuss climate resilience, food justice, and sustainable agriculture practices.
- Terra Madre Kitchen and Taste Workshops: Offering guided tastings and chef collaborations highlighting regional ingredients and cooking methods.
- Slow Drinks, Market, and Street Food: Spaces dedicated to organic produce, sustainable drinks, and local street foods that emphasize unique regional ingredients as showcased in the Ark of Taste.
- Community Kitchen: A vibrant communal dining area where representatives from all barangays in Bacolod will come together to share traditional dishes.
Featuring Renowned Chefs and Mixologists
TMAP 2025 showcases a remarkable lineup of international and local chefs ready to delight attendees. From Asia's Best Female Chef Johanne Siy to Michelin-starred talents like Wes Kuo and Hafizzul Hashim, the event boasts elite culinary expertise.
Local culinary stars include figures such as Jordy Navarra and Thirdy Dolatre, alongside Negrense-based chefs who add local flavor to this vibrant gathering. Together, these chefs will showcase the breadth and depth of culinary traditions from the region.
The mixology scene at the event will be equally impressive, featuring renowned international and local mixologists who will create signature drinks inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the region.
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
TMAP 2025 is a result of an incredible collaboration among various stakeholders, including Slow Food, local government units, tourism departments, and several partners, aimed at ensuring a successful and impactful event.
Overall, the event showcases a unique visual identity representing the resilience and biodiversity of the area, reflecting the intertwined journeys of culture and gastronomy through inspired design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Terra Madre Asia & Pacific?
Terra Madre Asia & Pacific is a regional event focused on sustainable gastronomy, bringing together diverse participants to celebrate food cultures and sustainable practices.
When will the event take place?
The event is scheduled for November 19 to 23, 2025, in Bacolod City.
Who can attend the event?
The event will host around 2,000 delegates from various countries, and it will also welcome visitors interested in exploring the themes of sustainable food systems.
What are the main activities planned for the event?
Activities include exhibitions, educational programs, taste workshops, public talks, and community kitchens where local culinary traditions will be highlighted.
Why is Bacolod City significant for this event?
Bacolod City has been designated as the Center for Sustainable Gastronomy, recognizing its commitment to promoting organic and sustainable practices in the culinary sector.
