From right to left: Embassy of Malaysia, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Rizany Irwan bin Muhamad Mazlan; Department of Agriculture, Program Director  Bernadette San Juan; Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Capaya Rodriguez Gonzales; Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions, Executive Director Pauline Suaco-Juan; Department of Trade and Industry, Secretary Ramon Lopez; Cabinet Spouses Association, Inc, Executive Secretary Atty. Betty Medialdea; Department of Trade and Industry, Undersecretary Abdulgani Macatoman; Philippine Food Processors  and Exporters Organization, Inc., President Roberto Amores and Embassy of Hungary, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Dr. Jozsef Bencze.

Manila, Philippines – The 13^th edition of IFEX Philippines NXTFOOD ASIA recorded a successful opening last May 24 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila. Inaugurated by top government officials and diplomats, the event is considered as the biggest gathering of delectable and export quality food finds.

Philippine food exporters are now enjoying the encouraging response of local and foreign trade buyers, foodies and consumers as the event continues to attract thousands of visitors.

Droves of visitors excited to discover new food products at IFEX Philippines NXTFOOD ASIA.

Beyond efforts to expand food exports, IFEX Philippines NXTFOOD ASIA also aims to pique the interest of local consumers to appreciate the exquisite quality of Filipino offerings at par with the world’s standards.

The event features the Islands on a Plate special setting that serves mouthwatering dishes prepared by Chef Bea Nitard of Via Mare, who lent her expertise in curating the use of Premium 7 ingredients such as cacao, coffee, mango, tuna, banana, pineapple and coconuts.

From left to right: DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez samples a Filipino product with Via Mare’s Chef Bea Nitard and CITEM Executive Director Pauline Suaco-Juan.

Savory paella, one of the dozens of delectable tasting dishes served in the Islands on a Plate Special Setting at IFEX Philippines NXTFOOD ASIA.

Chef Helmut Holzer, award-winning culinary master and certified European and American Master Chef, graced IFEX Phillippines NXTFOOD ASIA as luminary guest.

Date of release: 25 May 2019