MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- The Province of Lanao del Sur conducted the 1st Inter-LGU Culinary Festival as part of the month-long celebration for the 64th founding anniversary of the province.

Maranao cuisine was highlighted during the culinary festival to promote the rich food tapestry of the province.

Provincial Tourism Officer Ahmad Nouraldinn Tamano Jr. said under the provincial government's Vision 2040, the promotion of Maranao culture was identified as one of the key sectors for facilitating sustainable development in the province. 

Accordingly, the culinary festival was designed to contribute to "Maranao culturepreneurship" strategy and showcase the richness of Maranao culture and promote local creative talents.

He was also happy as the 1st Inter-LGU Culinary Festival of Lanao was successful and has achieved its purpose.

"Nagulat ako na ang mga munisipyo ng Lanao del Sur ay kayang makipag compete sa national sa galing nila gumawa ng mga Maranao cuisines," he said.

(I am surprised that the municipalities of Lanao del Sur can compete with the national in their ability to make Maranao cuisines.)

Eighteen (18) municipalities participated in the said event, namely, Balabagan, Balindong, Binidayan, Buadipuso Buntong, Bubong, Kapai, Kapatagan, Lumba Bayabao, Lumbatan, Madalum, Marantao, Masiu, Piagapo, Pualas, Saguiaran, Sultan Dumalondong, Taraka, and Tugaya.

Tamano said among the 18 municipalities, they will choose a champion who will take home P50,000 cash prize while the 1st and 2nd runners-up will get P30,000 and P15,000, respectively. The consolation prize for other participants is P5,000. Aside from the cash prize, all participants were also given P5,000 to defray their transportation costs. 

He also shared that although this is the 1st inter-LGU culinary festival, the citizens can hope for another culinary event at next year's founding anniversary of the province. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)