In my recent travels across northern Mindanao, from Cagayan de Oro City to the western stretch of Misamis Occidental, near Zamboanga del Norte in Sapang Dalaga, I had the opportunity to try food specialties of the province, including suman that came in a variety of flavors.
On the second night in Cagayan de Oro City, I came up with the idea of putting together a culinary tourism program for Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.
I organized the Culinary Tourism Promotions Club in order to promote local delicacies and certain establishments.
Also, the core founders of the group will not be comprised of hoteliers and restaurateurs, but former hoteliers, tourism professionals, and those with a love for travel and gourmet. For instance, there’s Anna Liza Lacson, Atty. John Orola, Jr., Charles Lim, Mini Jimenez, Doc Chris Sorongon, Elsie Gonzaga, and myself.
Considering the responsibilities of the group, membership will solely be based on qualification – not application.
Watch for it to happen soon.

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Last week, while traveling to Iloilo City, I discovered the GT Hotel Jaro, located along the Jaro main road, leading to the regional offices of the Land Transportation Office, the National Irrigation Administration, and the National Food Authority.
At first, I was amused that check-in was in a restaurant called Tabla. Then, you are walked passed the kitchen and up to the next floor. When I opened the door to the room, I was impressed to see how big it was – and classy. The owner, Ponso Tan, a friend of mine, has his style but, indeed, his guests will be happy.
The food at Tabla is also good.
I was invited by Provincial Tourism Officer Tintin Manzinares to see the beaches. That’s a good way to promote destinations, by inviting credible people to help spread the word.
I will probably be visiting Davao in August.

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This column greets Rodel Parcon, Raymond Dabao, Richie Gamboa, City Councilors Caesar Distrito and Bart Orola, Roland Jubilag, Jr, Renato Novero, and Jessie Jimenez./WDJ