Lechon Festival back in La Loma

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City government will again hold the annual Lechon Festival in La Loma today.

The annual festival, which recognizes La Loma as the country’s lechon (roast pig) capital, is held alongside the feast of Nuestra Señora de Salvacion de La Loma.

“The La Loma Lechon Festival is more than a food celebration. It reflects the heart of Quezon City, where culture, community, faith and livelihood come together,” Mayor Joy Belmonte said.

“When we celebrate La Loma, we also support our local businesses, tourism workers, artists and lechoneros (people who roast pig) for keeping this tradition alive for generations,” Belmonte added.

In addition to the grand procession of the patron saint, the festival will feature a cook-off among lechoneros, a cooking demonstration by celebrity chef Tatung Sarthou, a lechon parade and a community boodle fight.

Also featured are traditional Filipino games, cultural performances, live entertainment and a local bazaar for lechon shops and other small businesses.

Belmonte is expected to unveil the La Loma gastronomic map, which will highlight the district’s top food destinations.

A fireworks display will cap the day-long festivities.