As the city flourishes, numerous coffee shops have emerged, catering to the taste of locals and visitors alike. This transformation has sparked a wide range of food products in the industry that redefines the culinary landscape of Zamboanga City. Innovating the local cuisines and adapting foreign cuisines with a touch of local Zamboangeño taste.

With the support of different national and local government agencies, these establishments are paving the way for a thriving dining culture in the city.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-9) is enthusiastic about the emergence of the food industry in the city where lots of restaurants and cafés are opening after recovering from the pandemic. Local cacao and coffee producers in Zamboanga City have also taken center stage, with their potential of expanding beyond the city's borders. They aim is to provide market in provinces and cities across the region, showcasing their quality raw products.

DTI Zamboanga City Provincial Director Grace Aduca called for other agencies and private institutions to collaborate to provide the MSMEs with necessary resources, funding and policy frameworks to thrive and succeed.

“It is crucial that we continue to support and empower the MSMEs as they are the backbone of our economy,” she added.

MSMEs serve as the backbone of the economy, which contribute 70% of employment and making up 50% of the region’s GDP. DTI also highlights the improvement of MSMEs in terms of packaging and innovation through using technology and internet in selling and marketing their businesses.