Philippine Consulate General in New York Maps the Filipino Soul through "Lasa at Salaysay" Culinary Showcase
NEW YORK, 28 April 2026 — The Philippine Center’s Kalayaan Hall was filled with the vibrant aromas of the archipelago on April 27, 2026, as the Philippine Consulate General in New York hosted “Lasa at Salaysay: Taste Across Borders.” The event served as a cornerstone of Filipino Food Month 2026, marking a sophisticated fusion of gastronomy and cultural diplomacy.
Under the 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship theme, “Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN,” the showcase explored the deep-rooted connections between Filipino culinary heritage and the broader Southeast Asian landscape. Consul General Senen Mangalile opened the afternoon by emphasizing that the luncheon was more than a meal, describing it as an act of cultural diplomacy that highlights the narratives and creative spirit defining Filipino identity in New York City.
The program featured a curated flight of dishes prepared by three of New York City’s most celebrated Filipino-American culinary figures. Chef Eric Valdez of Naks presented a masterclass in regional flavors with his “Sutukil” of Cebu, featuring Spanish Mackerel prepared three ways—grilled, souped, and cured—to showcase the versatility of Calamansi. Jojo Dizon of the video blog “etchingsofnyc” provided a soulful exploration of Coconut Milk with a deboned Ginataang Manok, a play on the Bicolano dish Tinuktok. To conclude the tasting, Kimberly Camara and Kevin Borja of Kora presented “Purple Reign,” a trio of Ube mignardises that demonstrated the modern evolution of the traditional heritage ingredient.
Moderated by Chef Joaquin Cariaso, currently Sous Chef at Manhatta, the event moved beyond the palate through the screening of “behind-the-scenes” reels. These film shorts offered guests an intimate look at the chefs’ personal roots. The subsequent panel discussion articulated how Filipino flavors—specifically the balance of acidity and savory “linamnam”—serve as a shared language with neighboring nations like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
“Lasa at Salaysay” positioned Filipino cuisine as a vital cultural asset. The event concluded with a networking session, leaving attendees with deeper understanding of how the Filipino dining table serves as a bridge to the diverse flavors of the ASEAN. END
