Originating from Ilocos, Basi is a traditional sugarcane wine fermented in earthen jars, a practice dating back to pre‑colonial times. It was historically produced by Ilocano farmers, even sparking the famous “Basi Revolt” in 1807 when its trade was restricted. Best enjoyed as a sweet-sour wine paired with native dishes.
Found in Kalinga, Cordillera, Kalingag is a native cinnamon bark used for medicine and flavoring since ancient times. Harvested by the Kalinga tribe, it remains a treasured aromatic despite declining forests. Best added to soups, stews, or herbal teas for its warm, spicy notes.
Native to the Ifugao highlands, Tapuy is a rice wine brewed from heirloom grains, deeply tied to rituals and celebrations. Crafted by the Ifugao tribe, it symbolizes prosperity and community bonding. Best served during feasts and ceremonies, or as a smooth rice wine with festive meals.
Originating from Bicol, pili thrives in volcanic soil around Mount Mayon. Harvested by Bicolano farmers, it has long been a livelihood staple despite its labor-intensive cracking process. Best enjoyed in candied pili brittle or modern pastries.
From Bohol, Visayas, this “dinosaur egg” salt is crafted by Boholano asinderos through seawater filtration and clay firing. Once nearly extinct, it’s now prized globally. Best grated over grilled meats or vegetables for smoky depth.
Etag is a traditional smoked and salted pork from the Mountain Province in the Cordillera, made by indigenous Cordilleran tribes as a preservation method dating back to pre‑Spanish times. It is best enjoyed in pinikpikan (native chicken stew) or added to soups and stews for its deep, smoky flavo
Native to Bukidnon in Northern Mindanao, adlai is an ancient grain once a staple before rice became dominant. Cultivated by the Higaonon tribe, it has been revived as a heritage crop for its resilience and health benefits. Best served as a rice alternative or brewed into adlai tea, offering a nutty, hearty flavor.
Originating from Sulu, Kahawa Sug is a robust native coffee cultivated by the Tausug tribe for centuries, often served during gatherings and rituals. Its bold, earthy flavor reflects the resilience of the community. Best enjoyed as a strong brewed coffee, paired with native pastries.
Native to Cotabato and other parts of Mindanao, Kamansi is a relative of jackfruit, historically valued by Lumad farming communities for its edible seeds. Once a staple in subsistence diets, it is now endangered due to limited cultivation. Best prepared roasted or boiled, or used in ginataang kamansi.
Native to Northern Mindanao, tabon‑tabon is a rare fruit traditionally used in kinilaw (Filipino ceviche) to remove fishy odors and add earthy citrus notes. It has been cultivated and preserved by Lumad tribes and coastal communities, who value it for its cleansing properties. Best included in fresh seafood kinilaw, where it balances flavors and highlights cultural tradition.
Originating from Agusan del Norte and coastal Mindanao, nipa palm vinegar is tapped from mangrove nipa sap, a tradition dating back centuries. It is carefully fermented by local coastal communities and fisherfolk, who preserve this artisanal practice. Best used in kinilaw (Filipino ceviche), where its sharp, earthy flavor elevates fresh seafood.
From Davao Oriental, Dugmay refers to abaca, traditionally cultivated by the Mandaya tribe not only for weaving but also for food wrapping and cultural rituals. Its fibers and byproducts sustained livelihoods and traditions for generations. Best showcased in eco-friendly food wraps or heritage-inspired dishes.