7th MANGAN TAKU FOOD FEST: 46 exhibitors bring the best of Cordilleran delicacies in one place

FEATURE

Baguio City, Philippines – Whether you are a culinary expert, an aspiring chef, or a foodie, this is your chance to taste, learn, and celebrate the best flavors of the Cordillera—only at Mangan Taku!

Now in its 7th edition, Mangan Taku, which translates to “Let’s Eat,” is a flagship program of the regional office of the Department of Tourism, in partnership with the city government of Baguio.

The annual food fair continues to bring together local farmers, chefs, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and community groups to showcase the diverse indigenous dishes and culinary heritage of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, and Mountain Province, while also embracing innovation and modern flair. This year’s event also features selected participants from neighboring regions.

Held in time for the celebration of Filipino Food Month this April, the 2026 edition opened on Thursday at the Rose Garden in Burnham Park, where the aroma of heirloom recipes and locally sourced ingredients fills the air.

Among the 46 participating exhibitors are groups from Balbalan featuring finungol (binungor), inatata, and other native delicacies; the Slow Food Community (SLC) from Pasil, Kalinga, showcasing inanchila, unoy rice, and more; as well as the SLC of indigenous agroecological producers from Barlig, offering rainforest-grown coffee, teas, and vegetables.

The food fair also highlights iconic Cordilleran dishes such as Abra’s inladit and bagnet, Apayao’s pinaltit and sinursur, Benguet’s kini-ing and pising, Ifugao’s pinunnog, and Mountain Province’s pinikpikan and etag.

Regional Director Jovi Ganongan of the Department of Tourism–Cordillera noted that the event blends tourism with culinary exploration, allowing visitors to discover the region’s beauty while savoring its local flavors.

“This is the essence of gastronomy tourism, where every dish tells a story, every ingredient reflects the land, and every flavor carries the spirit of our communities,” she said.

The public is invited to support local farmers and take pride in the thriving local food community.

Carrying the theme “Preserving Traditions, Sustaining Flavors,” the 7th Mangan Taku concluded with the awarding of winners on Monday afternoon, April 27.