“This event looks ahead to the future of the continent and beyond, shaping food systems that can guarantee good, clean, and fair food for the next generations,” Mukiibi continues. “The Philippines is an important food destination for the world, and we must act together to preserve its extraordinary food biodiversity and support a model of tourism that respects people and ecosystems.”

As a political, cultural, and gastronomic platform, Terra Madre Asia & Pacific addresses urgent issues including climate change, seed sovereignty, respectful tourism, and the links between food and health. Among these, a strong stance has emerged against the potential introduction of GMOs in Negros Island, currently under discussion.

“We are against the proposal to allow GMO planting on our island, as it would harm our community and our farmers, whether organic or conventional,” says Ramon “Chinchin” Uy Jr, Slow Food Councillor for Asia & Pacific. “We now look forward to a decision that will shape the future of food and biodiversity in Negros.”

Mukiibi notes that the delegates gathered in Bacolod offer a living alternative. “There is another way to produce food, one rooted in agroecological principles that respect people and the planet. Agroecology protects biodiversity, strengthens local economies, and supports sustainable tourism. Defending local seeds and food cultures is not nostalgia; it is resistance. It is the future.”

A Gathering Marked by Urgency
The opening of Terra Madre Asia & Pacific comes in the wake of two recent typhoons that struck parts of Negros Island, disrupting the lives of farmers and fisherfolk. While the region avoided the most severe impacts, many communities continue to face hardship, making the event’s timing especially significant.

“Continuing with this gathering is essential,” emphasize Edward Mukiibi and Ramon Uy. “Slow Food’s presence strengthens our community and supports local economies that urgently need revival. Terra Madre Asia & Pacific reminds the world that collective action is necessary before more natural disasters strike. There is no better platform to amplify the message of caring for our communities and ecosystems through food that is good, clean, and fair.”

They highlight agroecology as both a farming approach and a movement: a “three-legged stool” supported by Indigenous knowledge, ecological science, and social action. Agroecology ensures cleaner environments, safer food, cultural preservation, and dignity for the farmers who nourish their communities.

Full program available here:  https://terramadreasiapacific.com/  ​​​​​​​

About Terra Madre Asia & Pacific
Part of the global Slow Food movement, Terra Madre Asia & Pacific is a space where communities, ingredients, and ideas converge to shape the future of food. In Bacolod, it unites more than 2000 delegates from across the region to exchange knowledge and strengthen networks for a fairer, more resilient food system. TMAP 2025 is made possible through collaboration between Slow Food, the City Government of Bacolod led by Mayor Greg Gasataya, the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental led by Governor Eugenio Lacson, the Department of Tourism led by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the Department of Agriculture led by Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., the Department of Trade and Industry led by Secretary Cristina Roque, TESDA Director General Kiko Benitez, Congressman Albee Benitez, Congressman Javi Benitez, and Senator Loren Legarda. Partners include the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), Meatless Monday, Plus63 Design Co., FEATR, and the Slow Food Community in Negros.
The event also introduces a distinct visual identity inspired by archipelagic landscapes and handcrafted clay forms, reflecting resilience, biodiversity, and cultural interconnectedness designed and created by illustrator Dan Matutina.