By: Bryan Bugas, Rihana Salinas, Jamil Mabandis
Dear Mrs. Fernandez,
Warmest congratulations on “Sa Banwa sang Dulce: The Flavors of Negros.” Your essay truly deserves the recognition it has received, and we are happy that it has been celebrated. It is not just beautifully written but also filled with meaning and heart.
We were first drawn in by your vivid descriptions. The way you wrote about Silay’s sweets made us almost taste the sugar, smell the caramel, and hear the crispness of the pastries. It felt like we were there, enjoying the delicacies ourselves.
We also appreciated how you connected food to its cultural and historical roots. You showed that Silay’s sweetness carries with it the story of the sugar industry, the life of the ilustrados, and the traditions of the community. This reminded us that food is never just food — it tells stories of people, heritage, and history.
Most of all, your voice gave the essay warmth and pride. It felt personal yet shared, as if you were letting us step into the heart of Silay. Through your words, we felt welcomed into your banwa sang dulce, where food ties together memory, family, and identity.
Because of these, your essay stands out as a true example of what makes a food essay special — vivid, meaningful, and heartfelt. Once again, congratulations. Your work not only makes us crave Silay’s delicacies but also makes us feel proud of our culture and roots.
Feastfully,
Group 1 Mukbangers