The Philippines has been selected to host the 10th edition of the United Nations Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in 2026. The Department of Tourism announced the decision, highlighting the country's culinary heritage and sustainable practices. Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco called it a perfect venue for global cultural exchange through food.
MANILA, Philippines — The United Nations Tourism announced on November 10 that the Philippines will host the 2026 World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, marking the event's 10th edition. The Department of Tourism (DOT) shared the news, emphasizing the country's role in promoting food as a cultural bridge.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the selection, stating, “The Philippines is the perfect venue for the 2026 UN Tourism World Gastronomy Forum — where the world can gather to share, taste, and celebrate food as a bridge between cultures. More importantly, this recognition places our country at the forefront of global gastronomy and sustainable tourism.” She added, “Our 7,641 islands are blessed not only with incredible natural beauty but with a culinary heritage that reflects the heart and soul of the Filipino — creative, diverse, and resilient. Through gastronomy, we invite the world to experience the love of our people and the richness of our story.”
The hosting aligns with the National Tourism Development Plan 2023–2028, which positions gastronomy tourism as a key growth area. The forum is expected to draw global leaders, chefs, innovators, and advocates from more than 150 countries to discuss food tourism's role in inclusive growth, sustainability, and cultural preservation.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili confirmed the decision in a letter, praising the Philippines' “demonstrated leadership, institutional readiness, and commitment to meeting the legal and procedural requirements.” He noted, “The Philippines’ commitment to advancing tourism through gastronomy — supported by its efforts to strengthen local food systems, empower youth and women, and celebrate culinary heritage — positions it as an exceptional host for this flagship global event.”
This announcement follows the launch of the first Michelin Guide in the Philippines on October 30, which recognized local chefs and establishments. Frasco remarked during the ceremony, “We anticipate that with the arrival of the Michelin Guide, as many more people come to the Philippines, then we will provide more opportunities for businesses to sprout up, for suppliers and growers to increase their supplies to the culinary industry, for income, for communities and families.” Last year, the country hosted the first UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu, resulting in the Cebu Call to Action on Gastronomy Tourism as a Driver for Sustainable Development.