By Brian Jules Campued
The Philippines will attempt to set a Guinness World Record on March 1 for the most number of pork dishes served.
The National Federation of Hog Farmers, Inc. (NatFed) and the local government of Quezon City will celebrate the National Pig Day by serving over 300 pork viands—from the ever popular adobo to “putok-batok” dishes such as lechon, crispy pata, and sisig.
“The world record attempt will serve as a kick-off event of the organization’s five-day Hog Festival in Cubao, Quezon City and Marikina from March 1 to 5,” according to a statement by the Quezon City LGU on Thursday.
Through the food festival, NatFed aims to boost the local swine industry as well as encourage local hog raisers to farm and breed more pigs amid the threat of African Swine Fever affecting swine populations in some provinces.
“Our organization aims to promote the interests of the local agricultural sector by promoting food security, food safety, and food sovereignty,” NatFed Vice Chairperson Alfred Ng said.
“With the hog festival, we also hope to boost our country’s tourism by highlighting our rich culinary tradition of serving pork dishes.”
Quezon City Tourism Department officer-in-charge Tetta Tirona underscored the duty of their local government to promote local hog farmers and promote the city as a culinary tourism destination.
“Linking hog producers with institutional markets like restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels to lessen their dependence on imported pork will redound to the growth of our local economy as well,” Tirona stated.
The first three days of the festival will be held in Cubao while the culminating event with a Backyard Congress will take place in Marikina City.
Interested foodies are invited to join the five-day festival as they can enjoy at least 10 pork dishes for a ticket worth P180. (with report from Cleizl Pardilla) – avds
