Pangasinan Products Shine at International Food Expo
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Eleven Pangasinan products proudly took center stage at the three-day International Food Expo (IFEX) 2025 held at the World Trade Center Metro Manila in Pasay City from May 22 to 24. These Pangasinan products showcased their quality and uniqueness in the country’s premier trade promotions program, designed to foster innovation and collaboration among local and international players in the food, beverage, and ingredient industries.
The presence of Pangasinan products at IFEX 2025 highlighted the province’s rich culinary heritage and growing food industry. The exhibitors included Hou Yang Food Corp. featuring bangus and chicken karaage; Elisha Bay Dagupan Bangus and Seafood with processed bangus; Mama Cili Enterprises offering bottled processed bangus; Dimalupig and Gabriele Food Products Trading presenting sugarcane vinegar; Bernal Bagoong with bagoong products; Abundance Agri Tourism and Training Center Inc. showcasing organic agricultural products; Bantog Samahang Nayon MPC with dairy items; and Nutridense Food Manufacturing Corp., specializing in ready-to-eat complementary and fortified foods.
Showcasing Pangasinan’s Finest
First-time exhibitors also made a strong impression. Rotico Food Products introduced Romana peanut brittle, a local heirloom delicacy known for its quality. Eldica Seafood Processing presented processed bangus, while Anjo Farms Inc. also displayed their processed bangus products. These participants demonstrated how Pangasinan continues to innovate while preserving traditional flavors.
Local leaders noted that Governor Ramon V. Guico III has been a strong supporter of the province’s best products since taking office in July 2022. He is committed to revitalizing the province’s renowned 3Bs – bangus, bagoong, and bucayo – and aims to further boost local products and tourism in his second term.
Quality and Heritage in Every Bite
Maria Isabela Mendoza, production manager of Rotico Food Products and wife of a former local official, expressed pride in their Romana peanut brittle. “Romana is known for quality. Lahat ng niluluto namin, quality,” she said, emphasizing the care and tradition behind their products.
In 2023, the provincial government, through the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (PEDIPO), partnered with Dr. Arlyn Grace V. Guico, founding president of Project Abound, to help some export-quality Pangasinan products join international exhibitions like IFEX.
The provincial board has also crafted ordinances to support local businesses, including creating a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Trade, Investment, and Exposition Center in Pangasinan. This initiative seeks to institutionalize and encourage the participation of local MSMEs in national and international trade fairs such as Manila Fame and IFEX.
Belma T. Carrera, CEO of Eldica Seafood Processing, shared her excitement about joining IFEX for the first time. “Napakasaya na makasali sa IFEX. Malaking tulong ito para makilala ang Eldica internationally,” she said, highlighting the importance of the event in expanding their market reach.
The successful participation of Pangasinan products at IFEX 2025 reflects the province’s vibrant food industry and its growing role on the international stage. Local leaders remain committed to nurturing this momentum for the benefit of the community and the province’s economic growth.
For more news and updates on Pangasinan products, visit Filipinokami.com.