MindanaoToday.com | Meranaw dishes take center stage in inter-school culinary showdown
By: Apipa P. Bagumbaran
MARAWI CITY – Lanao del Sur’s rich culinary heritage was on full display as the province hosted its first inter-school culinary competition. A cornerstone event for the province’s 65th founding anniversary celebration, the competition was organized by the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office (PTCAO) on July 25, 2024.
Twelve schools from across the province battled it out, with aspiring chefs showcasing their skills in appetizer and main course categories. A unique challenge for contestants was the mandatory use of Tugaya (candlenut) oil, a local ingredient, in all dishes.
Participating schools included Sultan Mangalampa Daing National High School, Pooni Lomabao Memorial National High School, Bubonga-Marantao National High School, Mohammad Qaba-El National High School, Unda Memorial National Agricultural School, Datu Aleem Balindong National High School, Racman Pimping Maniri Dumarpa National Science High School, RC-Al Khawarizmi Integrated College Foundation Inc-SHS, Dhayfullah Islamic Institute Foundation Inc.,21st Integrated Learning Academy Inc., Marawi City National High School, and Ganassi National High School.
“Sa mga ganitong program, pwede nating mapromote ang Lanao delSur bilang pinakaunang probinsiya sa buong bansa na makaestablish ng Halal industry. Sa mga activities din na ganito, makikita natin ang skills ng mga estudyante,” said Provincial Vice Governor Mohammad Khalid Adiong.
(Through these programs, we can promote Lanao del Sur as a pioneer in establishing the Halal industry nationwide. These kinds of activities also allow us to showcase the talents of our students.)
A variety of Meranaw dishes, including biyareng, chicken piyaparan, chicken randang, and piyaparan a bakas,were presented. The dishes were judged based on taste, presentation,
The panel of judges comprised Ansary Cali, owner of The Fam Grill, Yarra Macarambon, chief-of-staff to the Provincial Governor, and pastry chef Mon Cardenas of Monster Kitchen Cagayan de Oro.
“The competition is a testament to the hard work, innovation, and cultural pride of our Meranaw students,” said Provincial Tourism Officer Ahmad Nour-al-dinn Tamano Jr.
Tamano also expressed admiration for the students’ dedication to preserving their culinary heritage. He was impressed by their eagerness to participate in the competition and their talent in showcasing the rich traditions of Lanao del Sur.
A Farmers Market was integrated into the event, allowing participants to source the necessary ingredients for their culinary creations. The market showcased locally grown produce, supporting local farmers and producers. Unused items were donated to identified torils (Islamic non-formal learning institutions accepting stay-in learners) in the province.
To add to the excitement, a bench cheering competition was held among the participants’ supporters.
The PTCAO expressed its intention to host another culinary event to further elevate the profile of Meranaw cuisine. Last year’s PTCAO culinary competition featured local government units in the province. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
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