CAMALIG, ALBAY — Participants from various regions showcased their culinary skills using nutritious and affordable ingredients during the Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge held Wednesday morning, April 30, at Sumlang Lake in Camalig, Albay.
The Kusinero Cook-Off Challenge is a key activity under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Walang Gutom Program, which aims to promote food security by educating beneficiaries on practical cooking skills, proper nutrition, and the preparation of budget-friendly meals.
An intense showcase of culinary skills unfolded as five participants from different provinces of the Bicol Region demonstrated their creative use of local ingredients. Cresidia A. Peñola, from Donsol, Sorsogon, was declared the regional winner for her special dish, Kinunot na Tapas.
She also expressed her gratitude for the award, saying “Dahil sa effort at suporte ng mga kasamahan ko.. Binigyan nila ako ng inspirasyon. Sa edad kong ito, nanalo ako ng ganito? Pasalamat ako kina ser at kina ma’am… Ito na ang pangarap ko sa buhay ko.”
The event aimed to teach practical cooking skills, promote healthy eating habits, and support participants in gaining knowledge that can help improve their daily lives. It was also attended by government officials, partner agencies, and Walang Gutom Program beneficiaries. The cook-off was part of a larger caravan that included the Orientation of the Productivity Fair and the Pamilya sa Bagong Pilipinas Roadshow.I Nicole Castillo
