Exceptional Culinary Competition Showcases 'Tatak Manolo Fortich' Dishes, Leaving Judges in Awe

Daes ta Manolo Fortich

As part of the celebration of the Municipal Tourism Week, the Culinary Competition among the competitors in the municipality of Manolo Fortich took place at the Tourist Rest Area Grounds on the second day of the celebration, September 28, 2023.

The four contenders vying for the first Daes ta Manolo Fortich title came from both public and private establishments in the municipality presenting their own version of the Tatak Manolo Fortich cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Representatives from Barangay Damilag showcased their dish Native Chicken with Pineapple Glaze. Manolo Fortich Randang was also a dish to look out for with their innovative salad side dish prepared by representatives from Bukidnon Inasal Manolo Fortich Branch. A father and daughter tandem from Barangay Lingi-on served their family’s legacy recipe, Coconut Sauced Native Chicken. Lastly, the representative from Barangay Kalugmanan showcased his Pan Seared Chicken Pineapple Sauce Dish.

Each contender was given 3 hours to prepare their food as the judges keep an eye on their food preparation and processes. Guided by the following criteria, the contestants made sure to leave an impression to the esteemed judges.

Criteria for Judging:

• “Tatak Manolo Fortich” factor (40%)

• Creativity and Presentation (30%)

• Use of Local Ingredients (20%)

• Cultural Authenticity (10%)

The winners of the contest shall be awarded on the 30^th during the closing program of the celebration. However, the judges congratulated all the participants ahead for the courage to compete in the event. According to the Board of Judges, Senior High School Home Economics Teacher Miss Ethel Jane Loneza-Lanzaderas, she was amazed with the preparation and presentation of the dish. “Congratulations everyone and I am really amazed with the presentation.” Furthermore, the Unit Head of Small Medium Enterprise Development Unit from DTI Bukidnon, Mr. Laurence D. Pradia shared the same sentiments with Miss Lazendares. “One thing I was amazed of is the presentability and marketability sa inyohang dishes. Continue to innovate on your dishes kay I can say jud nga dili jud siya basta-basta. If you want to offer it sa kanang mga restaurant for sure, this will one of the sources of your livelihood.”

The judges also shared advice on how to improve the dishes and how to market them. Highlighting the potential of each dish as a possible Tatak Manolo Fortich product in the future.