03 June 2022 – The Philippine Consulate General in Barcelona in partnership with the Department of Tourism Office in London hosted the Philippine Food Promotion Day – Kain Na, held on 03 June 2022.

The event is a continuing program of the Department of Tourism Office in London to increase awareness of the Philippines in Europe.

In her welcome message, Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro underscored the shared identity between the Philippines and Spain and the influences both have had on each other´s culture. “The Spanish influences are permanently embedded in our culture. However, we have made these influences uniquely ours,” said Consul General Lazaro. “Today, you will be able to sample these Spanish influences in our food, which is central to many things that we do as a people,” Lazaro added.

Barcelona PCG and DOT, which was represented by its Administrative Officer Jing Esmaña, enlisted the help of two Barcelona-based Filipino chefs, Enderun-trained Ms. Daphne Dominique Alivia and Mr. Carlos Bautista, in showcasing various Filipino food from different regions in the Philippines, which include kinilaw, lumpiang baka with vegetables, adobong pisngi ng baboy, buko pandan and carioca. The two highlighted the Filipinos´ creativity and resourcefulness in their food presentation.

The media people and online influencers in attendance were amazed at the diversity of the food showcased. Spanish journalists Alvaro Laforet and Alicia Escribano commented that the food is full of flavors and praised the presentation and “amazing and beautiful.” Influencer and photographer Ms. Shuko Kawase, on the other hand, said that the food sampled was full of vibrant colors, reflective of the Philippines and had variety suitable for everyone´s taste. Another Spanish guest Felipe Martinez said he has tried other Asian food and Philippine food is one of his favorites, hence, he was excited in participating in Kain Na.

The event was met with much enthusiasm from the invited guests who were given food kits and information materials on the Philippines as souvenir items. 

Consul General Maria Theresa Lazaro addressing the Barcelona based travel agents and social media influencers

Filipino Chefs Daphne Dominique Alivia and Carlos Bautista demonstrating the preparation of Philippine food

Philippine food presented during the event

Attendees admiring the Philippine food on display

Consul General Maria Theresa S.M. Lazaro and DOT London Administrative Officer Jing Esmaña with the attendees to the event Kain Na!