On its second year, the Cebu Food and Wine Festival has launched a month-long series of activities that began with the welcome reception at the Crimson Resort and Spa and culminated at the newly-opened al fresco bar of JP Island Resort and Waterpark.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic and how it shifted individuals to dine or be entertained, the events showcase the ways the industry has adapted to the pandemic’s continuous challenges. The evening highlighted Cebu’s local culinarians who whipped up magical dishes that left diners with the fondest memories that exceeded highest expectations.
Then-Tourism Regional Director Shalimar Tamano, recently appointed Department of Tourismundersecretary, recognized the need to further reignite and sustain the industry. He met up to discuss pressing issues among a gathering of wine connoisseurs and restaurateurs on best practices to help the farmers, chefs and the tourism related establishments.
This led to the conception of CFWF, with Perl Jacalan, Marco and Kate Anzani, Didier Belmonte and Brian Connelly as founding members. The movement was created to highlight the culinary prowess of the people, places and produce of Cebu.
In addition to this, the Ministry of Food and Wine was formed to serve as a nonprofit organization that supports the hospitality industry in recovery projects in local hotels, resorts, restaurants and other allied fields. Initiatives include province-wide festivals that boast of the best of locals, which began in April 2021 and continues till today.