CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Kayumanggí: A Kaleidoscope of Filipino Flavors and Traditions by Kapampangan chef Jam Melchor has been named Best Asian Food Culture Book in the World at the 31st International Gourmand Awards 2025 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Nov. 27-30.
“Your work is a beautiful celebration of the Philippines’ rich culinary traditions, shining a light on indigenous ingredients, heirloom recipes, and the deep cultural; roots of Filipino cuisine,” enthused Edouard Cointreau, chairman of the awards committee, hailing it as a “fabulous book” and lauding the author as “visionary founder of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement.”
Citing the book’s significance thus: “Through this labor of love, you honor the country’s gastronomic heritage while inspiring future generations to cherish, preserve, and proudly share the flavors and traditions that define Filipino identity.”
Founded in 1995 with participation from over 200 countries, the Gourmand Awards are the only international competition dedicated to publications on food and drinks cultures.
Unable to attend the awarding ceremonies, the Philippine Embassy in Saudi Arabia received the recognition on Melchor’s behalf.
“This recognition is not mine alone, it is a reflection of every heart and hand that has walked with me in this journey. I am merely a steward of a legacy far greater than myself. Dacal a salamat,” said Melchor in a post in his social media page.
Distributed for free “because it is my [Melchor’s] personal belief that food education should be accessible to every Filipino,” the book’s publication was supported by the Department of Trade and Industry. Punto Lifestyle Team/Contributed photos
