Catbalogan Promotes Food Tourism to Preserve Samar’s Culinary Traditions

Posted on May 16, 2026 at 9:54 pm

TACLOBAN CITY — In Catbalogan, Samar, food is more than just sustenance; it is a means of preserving local traditions.

The Secret Kitchens of Samar Food Crawl Series: Flavors of Catbalogan, organized by the city government, offers visitors a chance to savor dishes that have been a staple in Samar households for generations.

Rather than simply providing meals, the program takes participants to local markets, small eateries, and family-owned establishments where time-honored recipes are lovingly prepared.

At venues like Catbalogan City Market, Tina’s Garden, Charito’s Delights, Tony’s Kitchen, Palabok House by Haropoy, and the Bularan Strip, guests can sample delicacies such as pakdol, lomo, suman, and puto foods deeply ingrained in the local culture.

For the vendors and cooks, these dishes are a way of life, shaped by familial traditions, locally sourced ingredients, and years of culinary expertise.

The initiative aims to ensure that these recipes endure amidst changing lifestyles. By introducing them to a wider audience, organizers hope to inspire younger generations to continue the legacy of preparing and cherishing these regional specialties.

Governor Sharee Ann Tan of Samar emphasized that the program is a celebration of cultural heritage through food.

“These are the flavors of our upbringing. They evoke memories of home, family gatherings, and festive occasions. We want visitors to savor that essence and appreciate our roots,” she remarked.

Moreover, the food crawl provides a boost to small-scale food enterprises and market vendors, enabling them to thrive while preserving the authenticity of their traditional offerings.

For Catbalogan, the initiative transcends mere tourism, it is a commitment to safeguarding Samar’s culinary heritage by allowing individuals to immerse themselves in it, one dish at a time.

Photo: Dept. of Tourism