The weeklong event opened with a ceremonial striking of the gong by Tower Club chairman Washington SyCip and erstwhile Agriculture Secretary Carlos Dominguez who was accompanied by wife Cynthia. The gong was strategically placed at the entrance of the Continental, on a round table draped with woven textiles that could have come only from southern Philippines.
Everywhere at the Tower Club were tell-tale details of Davao’s culture: patterned brown fabrics suspended from the ceiling, colorful silken shawls on a glass top, and an abundant harvest of Davao produce, from pomelo to pineapple to rambutan. The only thing missing at the display was durian – and, well, you can guess why. For this special occasion, the club’s receptionists ably played their part by dressing up in splendid tribal garb.
Tower Club GM Rupert Haarhoff and membership director Cyndy Tan-Jarabata welcomed club members and their guests. As soon as one entered the spacious hall of the Continental, the terrific whiff of Davao specialties teased the senses. Included on the spectacular menu were yellow fin tuna, exotic pan-seared ostrich fillet, durian and almond pithiver and ceviche of bay scallops. Among those present were CCA Philippines president Arthur M. Lopez, Tower Club’s chairman Joey Cuisia, Guillermo Luchangco and Bienvenido Tan.
After a hearty luncheon, guests stayed on to view the display of another Davao specialty – shawls made of woven silk. Davaoeña and former Miss Universe Margie Moran-Floirendo presented the fabulous fabrics together with her business partner Mary Ann Montemayor.
All in all, the Bountiful Davao Food Festival was a very memorable experience highlighted by superb dining and the extraordinary culture and culinary arts of Davao.