Manila: The Department of Tourism (DOT) welcomed the Philippines’ latest citation as one of Asia’s rising culinary hotspots. Marriott International’s ‘Future of Food 2026’ report recently recognized the growing influence of the Philippines in Asia’s gastronomic landscape and named it among the countries ‘ready to be plated as the next gastronomic gateway.’

According to Philippines News Agency, the report was based on insights from over 30 influential chefs, mixologists, culinary experts, and regional food media, along with data from Marriott’s first regional survey. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco stated that gastronomy tourism is a vital part of the National Tourism Development Plan, impacting the country’s image, local communities, and food producers.

Frasco emphasized the DOT’s commitment to expanding gastronomy tourism, acknowledging its benefits for communities. She highlighted that gastronomy tourism is a key pillar under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028, aiming to position the Philippines as a gastronomic paradise by developing regional culinary circuits and supporting local producers and chefs.

The DOT previously facilitated the historic visit of the Michelin Guide to the Philippines, viewing it as a milestone in the country’s culinary journey and a signal of its rising prominence on the global gastronomic map. Furthermore, Bacolod City and Negros Occidental, in collaboration with the DOT, will host the first-ever regional edition of Terra Madre Asia and Pacific (TMAP), a major sustainable gastronomy event, next month.

The report also cited key trends such as the rise of fine-casual dining, increased use of native ingredients, and more immersive and multi-sensory dining experiences that go beyond traditional meals.