- Article by: VJSanchez, MRamos
- February 2, 2024
- Provincial Agriculturist's Office of Oriental Mindoro
The Province of Oriental Mindoror celebrated its 73rd founding anniversary, known as “FIESTA MAHAL TANA” from November 13 to 15, 2023. One of the main activities was the Food Innovation Festival, orchestrated by the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office. This marked the third iteration of the festival, dubbed “Food Innovation Festival: Lutong Mindoreño,” which unfolded on November 14 at the Divine Word College of Calapan (DWCC).
The Food Innovation Festival aims to elevate culinary standards by integrating key agricultural commodities from Oriental Mindoro, including calamansi, banana, coconut, and other emerging fruits. The event featured two prominent competitions: the Most Innovative Chef – Culinary Competition and the Most Innovative Agricultural Food Product – Exhibit, Presentation, and Competition.
In the Most Innovative Chef competition, 11 college schools participated, each fielding two contestants. Simultaneously, 14 senior high schools engaged in the Most Innovative Agricultural Food Product competition, with two representatives per school.
The City College of Calapan secured the top honors in the Most Innovative Chef category. While, Leuteboro National High School emerged victorious in the Most Innovative Agricultural Food Product category. They received plaque and cash prizes in the amount of P17,000 and P15,000 respectively. P7,000 consolation prizes were also awarded to the participating schools.
Overall, the event was hailed as a triumph, with participants demonstrating exemplary knowledge and skills. The Food Innovation Festival stands as a testament to Oriental Mindoro’s commitment to culinary excellence and sustainable agricultural practices, blending tradition and innovation to create a vibrant cultural tapestry.
Most Innovative Chef Category:
Champion, Best Main Dish and Best Dessert: City College of Calapan
Best Appetizer: Southwestern College of Maritime, Business, and Technology, Inc.
Most Innovative Agricultural Food Product Category:
Champion and Best Calamansi Product: Leuteboro National High School
1st Runner-up and Best Coconut Product: Alcadesma National High School
2nd Runner-up: Dangay National High School
Best Banana Product: San Teodoro National High School