The 17th Philippine Food Expo (PFE), a vibrant three-day showcase of Filipino culinary artistry, was held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila from April 4 to 6, 2025. Organized by the Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization (PHILFOODEX), this year’s theme spotlighted the rich culinary heritage of the Ilocos Region, highlighting its unique flavors, ingredients, and time-honored cooking traditions. Over 300 exhibitors from across the country gathered to present their food products, culinary innovations, and regional delicacies to the public. For the 17th edition of the expo, UST serves as its official school partner.
Preparatory events were held in the weeks leading up to the expo. The Culinary Challenge Competition Briefing took place at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Bl. Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. (BGPOP) Building’s Multifunction Room last March 1, while the Food Styling & Photography Competition was held at the BGPOP Lobby and Mezzanine last March 22.
Throughout the expo, a lineup of exciting culinary competitions engaged the audience. Events included the Ilocano Table Setting Competition, Kitchen Masters, PINASarap Almusal, Modern Ilocano Dessert, Healthy Heritage Dishes, Mystery Ingredient Challenge, and the UST Dream Team Showdown. The Dream Team competition, featuring 2nd and 3rd-year students from Culinary Entrepreneurship and Hospitality Leadership, highlighted the creativity and potential of future hospitality professionals from UST. As the PFE’s official partner school, UST was given a unique platform to showcase its student talents. The PFE Knowledge Challenge also tested students’ expertise in culinary arts, nutrition, and food safety.
The culinary competitions were hosted by Louis San Sebastian and Clarisse Ricablanca, both fourth-year Culinary Entrepreneurship students. The PFE Knowledge Challenge was hosted by Renzo Riosa and Dave Rivera, and was facilitated by Mr. Wyett White T. Lee with the assistance of Ali Lamela.
Within the expo, a seminar took place that featured speakers invited from Ilocos with the support and assistance of UST Sentro Turismo. The session opened with a talk by Mr. Jose Pepito Alvarez on Ilocano culture and heritage, offering insightful perspectives on Ilocano history and identity. This was followed by a discussion led by Mr. Richie Gielbys B. Cavinta on the Municipality of San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte, highlighting the culture-based governance initiatives and the integration of heritage into sustainable public development.
The three-day event concluded with a festive awarding ceremony that recognized outstanding student contestants and institutions for their innovation and culinary excellence.