The Provincial Government of Quirino (PGQ), under the leadership of Hon. Dakila Carlo E. Cua, Governor, and Hon. Midy N. Cua, Congresswoman, spearheaded the 3rd Quirino Culinary Competition. The event served as a strategic initiative to promote the province’s premium-quality coffee beans and the exceptional culinary skills of its “kailiyans” (locals).
The PGQ collaborated with Quirino State University (QSU), led of Dr. Hermenegildo F. Samoy, Jr., President, to hold this year’s culinary showdown, titled “Quirino Coffee Fusion Culinary and 1st Barista Latte Art Competition.” As a featured activity for the Panagdadapun 2025 Celebration, the event was expertly facilitated by Prof. Jonathan N. Tariga, CHTM Program Chairperson and Competition Committee Head, and Ms. Aurea V. Martinez, Provincial Tourism Officer. They worked in close coordination with Ms. Carmelita B. Jimenez, Provincial Administrator.
During the competitions’ opening program, President Samoy Jr., welcomed the participants and spectators, explaining that the competition encourages contestants to blend flavors, textures, and imagination to transform coffee into remarkable dishes. He noted that the barista showdown turns coffee into a “masterpiece.” He added, “Just as coffee awakens the senses, so too do these competitions awaken our pride and inspire us to aim higher as a province.”
Hon. Hydie Mae R. Diaz, SK Federation President, relayed the message of the Governor and Congresswoman, sharing that they are deeply grateful to the participants and organizers for embracing their passion for coffee and bringing pride to the province. She added, “Together, let us continue brewing excellence, pride, and progress for our beloved Quirino.”
Following the brief program, the culinary competition and the barista showdown proceeded simultaneously. The judging panel featured a team of food and beverage experts: Chef Charlotte Joy Pagulayan, Ms. Emogene P. Senense, and Ms. Gwyneth Gabay Puda.
After the showcase of culinary skills and craftmanship, the winners were awarded. In her closing remarks, Ms. Martinez congratulated the participants and shared her hope that the developed dishes would be added to the regular menu of restaurants in the province. “May your culinary dreams continue to flourish,” she concluded.
The event’s success was made possible with the support of Hon. Junie E. Cua, former Congressman, and Dr. Julieta M. Paras, Director IV of the CHED Regional Office, who was represented by Dr. Pillar B. Acorda, Education Supervisor II. The working committees included the faculty from the following programs: BS Hospitality Industry Management (BSHM-Diffun Campus) led by Prof. Tariga and BS Tourism Management (BSTM-Diffun) chaired by Ms. Maricel B. Barroga. Dr. Carina D. Rustia, Program Chairperson of BS Hospitality Management (BSHM-Cabarroguis Campus); Ms. Bernadette C. Cortez of BSHM-Maddela Campus; and the QSU Information Office also played a vital role in the competition.
Held on, September 7, at the Provincial Gymnasium in Capitol Hills, Cabarroguis, the collaboration between the PGQ and QSU demonstrated a strong initiative to empower the Quirinian community and fostered a vibrant food culture that celebrates the unique flavors in the province. This event helps promote Quirino as a new gastronomic hub in the country.
|𝐐𝐈𝐎
