Renowned culinary expert Clang Garcia has been appointed as the Philippine Ambassador for the World Food Travel Association (WFTA), signaling a pivotal role in advancing the country’s food and beverage tourism industry. The WFTA, a global authority on culinary travel, aims to champion and promote diverse culinary cultures worldwide.
In her role as Ambassador, Garcia, the Culinary Experience Officer (CEO) of Food Holidays, expressed her excitement about representing the Association in the Philippines. She envisions leveraging her expertise to empower local food and beverage businesses through the experience economy. Recognizing the rich cultural significance of Filipino cuisine, Garcia is committed to preserving and promoting the country’s unique culinary heritage on the global stage through her association with WFTA.
As an ambassador, Garcia will play a vital role in serving as the liaison between the Association and the Philippines. This includes handling media inquiries, speaking at trade events on behalf of the Association, and disseminating information about food and beverage tourism throughout the country. Ambassadors are crucial in representing the interests of the Association locally and fostering awareness of the region’s culinary offerings on the international stage.
Erik Wolf, Executive Director of the World Food Travel Association, emphasized the importance of focusing on the distinctiveness of culinary cultures worldwide. He highlighted Garcia’s role in driving revenue for local food and beverage entrepreneurs, increasing visitor arrivals, and identifying compelling stories for local media.
About Clang Garcia:
Clang Garcia is a disruptor in Philippine gastronomy tourism, recognized as a Filipino food scholar. Her extensive independent research has influenced product and destination development, curated immersive journeys, and provided educational content across various media channels. Garcia is the author of “Philippine Food Holidays,” a guide that emerged during the pandemic, contributing to the revival of the culinary and tourism sectors.
Her role as the food and travel host of Cignal TV’s DiscoverEats showcases unsung heritage dishes, tradition bearers, and cultural communities across the Philippines. Notably, Garcia’s work has facilitated the creation of gastronomic experiences for international gastronomy media, chefs, authors, restaurateurs, and discerning food enthusiasts. Additionally, she serves on the Council of Advisers at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, contributing to the Master of Science and Doctorate Programs of Tourism and Hospitality Management.
