Filipino cuisine is stepping into the global spotlight as the International Manila Food Festival (IMFF) kicks off from August 7 to 10 at Newport World Resorts. For the first time in the country, the IMFF brings together a stellar cast of Michelin-honored chefs, James Beard-nominated talents, and culinary trailblazers from around the world to honor, explore, and elevate Filipino food.
Produced by Motherland Productions in partnership with GMA Network and Newport World Resorts, the IMFF aims to position the Philippines as a rising powerhouse in global gastronomy through a week of immersive events—from exclusive tasting menus to chef collaborations and a high-level Culinary Congress.
A Star-Studded Culinary Lineup
Among the celebrated names are Monique Feybesse, a “Top Chef” alum blending French finesse with Filipino roots; Ross Magnaye, Melbourne’s breakout Filipino chef; Lordfer Lalicon, whose Florida restaurant Kaya earned a Michelin Green Star for sustainability; and Nicole Ponseca, the Filipino-American cookbook author and restaurateur pushing Filipino flavors to the mainstream.
Local culinary leaders like Josh Boutwood, Chele Gonzalez, Stephan Duhesme, and Aaron Isip join the lineup, showcasing inventive takes on Filipino ingredients and traditions. The festival highlights how Filipino food can be bold, refined, sustainable, and globally relevant—all while staying true to its roots.
Exploring the Future of Filipino Cuisine
On August 9, the World Filipino Food Congress brings together thought leaders and top culinary institutions—including the Center for Culinary Arts, Enderun Colleges, and Le Cordon Bleu – Ateneo—for TED-style talks on topics like global branding, innovation, and sustainability. The Congress will explore how Filipino cuisine can evolve while preserving cultural identity.
A Flavorful Four-Day Festival
The IMFF schedule includes standout events: a five-course French-Filipino dinner at Casa Buenas (Aug 7), a globally inspired buffet at Kusina Sea Kitchen (Aug 8–9), and LASA x LAHI (Aug 10), a grand tasting gala featuring over a dozen chefs reimagining Filipino classics.
As interest in Filipino cuisine rises, the IMFF marks a defining moment, a united call to the world that Filipino food is ready to shine.
Tickets and full schedule at www.manilafoodfestival.com.
