Quezon city: Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco on Friday praised the country's first-ever Michelin-recognized chefs and restaurateurs for elevating Filipino cuisine on the global stage, saying their achievements solidify the Philippines' status as an emerging gastronomic destination. Speaking at the opening of the MICHELIN Guide Plaque Distribution and Restaurant Caravan, Frasco said the recognition reflects years of dedication and passion poured into advancing the country's culinary tourism.

According to Philippines News Agency, Frasco emphasized that under the vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the Department of Tourism (DOT) is building an inclusive and sustainable gastronomy value chain-one that uplifts not only top restaurants but also the communities and producers behind them. She noted the importance of acknowledging not just the finished culinary products, but also the sources and communities that contribute to these gastronomic achievements.

A total of 53 Michelin-selected restaurants were awarded their official plaques. Frasco also highlighted the Philippines' growing participation in international food platforms, including Terra Madre Asia and Pacific and the upcoming UN World Gastronomy Tourism Forum, as part of the DOT's effort to position gastronomy as a key driver of tourism and economic growth.

After the opening program, Frasco visited Michelin-recognized restaurants in Quezon City, Makati, and Taguig to personally hand over and install the plaques. This year's Resto-Run follows the launch of the inaugural MICHELIN Guide Philippines in October, marking the country's official entry into the global culinary map. The guide covers Metro Manila and Cebu, as well as noted culinary destinations such as Pampanga, Tagaytay, and Cavite.