The head of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has proposed the creation of the first-ever UN-backed gastronomy education center in the Philippines. The proposal emerged following the inaugural UNWTO Regional Forum on Gastronomy held in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on June 26.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Polikashvili reportedly made the surprise suggestion during his opening remarks at the forum. Inspired by the “signature warmth of the Filipino hospitality,” Polikashvili expressed his desire to leave a legacy with his organization. 

He identified the Philippines, particularly Cebu, as the ideal location for the center.

“We know that education is the top priority for your tourists and we will support this initiative to help the progress of UN Tourism,” Polikashvili said.

He added the idea struck him during his opening address, overwhelmed by the genuine hospitality of Filipinos upon his arrival for the event.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed the proposal.

“We are certainly very open to any discussions whether it be funding, curriculum, and the like. We have the support of the national government and, importantly as well, we have the support of those that will help us in the flourishing of this academy, our chefs, not to mention the Basque Culinary Center,” Frasco said.

The Basque Culinary Center, a world-renowned culinary school, also expressed its interest in collaborating on the project, according to a Department of Tourism statement.

“I am very happy to share our vision of education in gastronomy of the Philippine center which is important to elevate the level of chefs ability to work with a lot of sectors and to promote gastronomy,” said Idoia Calleja, director of Masters and Courses at the Basque Culinary Center.

“We will be very pleased to collaborate in this new center if it comes into reality,” she added. 

The inaugural UNWTO Regional Forum on Gastronomy brought together over 400 participants from more than 40 member states. The event aimed to explore the role of gastronomy in tourism development and cultural preservation.