Is Philippine cuisine underrated in comparison to other Asian cuisines like Thai, Vietnamese, or Korean food?

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Is Philippine cuisine underrated in comparison to other Asian cuisines like Thai, Vietnamese, or Korean food?

I would say so.

In my opinion, the main problem with Filipino cuisine is how its marketed. It’s strengths are not being promoted, nor is there a robust cultural diplomacy program like the gastro-diplomacy of the Thailand and how the Thai government has intentionally opened up and supported Thai restaurants overseas, or how the Hallyu wave funded by the South Korean government pushed Korean culture out to the world, including its food.

• There are plenty of things the Philippines does well, one of them being pork. Korean cuisine uses a lot of pork, especially in KBBQ settings.

• Seafood is a huge thing that the Philippines can take huge advantage of when trying to market themselves to the world.

• The Philippines is blessed with a tropical climate, and thus, so many tropical fruits, both native and brought over, thrive here. The sweetest mangoes in the world come from the Philippines.

• The idea of a kamayan feast or a boodle fight is also another way to be seen as appealing. Filipino food is meant to be shared and eaten with hands, on banana leaf.

• Colorful desserts, and the use of ube is another way that Filipino cuisine can put itself on a global stage.

• Just a personal opinion, but breakfast is done really well in Filipino cuisine. Silog dishes, champurado, pan de sal, longanisa, sikwate, etc.

• Regional cuisines in the Philippines are heavily under-appreciated. Most dishes outside of Tagalog/Kapampangan cooking are usually not given a spotlight. Not to mention cuisine from Bangsamoro is halal-friendly.

Filipino food doesn’t need to necessarily be marketed as “spicy” to be seen as worthy (though there are two regions in the Philippines known locally for their spicy cuisine: Bicol and Bangsamoro). In fact, the stereotype that Asian food is “spicy” is not as universal as people think.

• Vietnamese cuisine for instance is marketed to the global market for its use of fresh ingredients and fresh vegetables. There is also a balance when it comes to their cuisine.
• Japanese cuisine isn’t seen as spicy but similarly is known for its cooking techniques and fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to quality meats and seafood. Kaiseki cuisine for example emphasizes natural flavors. Filipino cuisine can lean into the fact that many dishes rely more on natural flavors.
• Part of the reason people may find Filipino food distasteful is how it is shown as “Fear Factor” exotic food, like balut. This garners attention, although a lot of it is the wrong kind.