ZAMBOANGA CITY – May 10, 2025 — The scenic island of Baung-Baung in Barangay Panubigan turned into a festive culinary haven on Saturday as it hosted the vibrant Once Islas Food Festival, a major feature of this year’s Verano Festival.
Spearheaded by the City Government of Zamboanga through the City Tourism Office, the event brought together local flavors, traditions, and warm island hospitality. Set against the backdrop of turquoise waters and lush greenery, the festival highlighted the culinary pride of Zamboangueños, especially those from the islands of Panubigan and Dita.
A total of 15 teams—nine from Panubigan and six from Dita—competed in the festive showdown, offering an irresistible array of seafood dishes and native delicacies. The competition wasn’t just about taste; it was also about showcasing creativity and presentation. Entries were judged based on flavor (60%) and presentation (40%), making for a feast that was both satisfying to the palate and pleasing to the eye.
Winners of the Day
In Panubigan, the Mansung Bawah Group (Entry No. 1) impressed the judges the most and took home the first prize of P10,000. They were followed by Andong Fam (Entry No. 8), who won second place and P7,000, while Oloroso, Sabroso Comida na Once Islas (Entry No. 2) bagged third place and P5,000.
Over in Dita, it was Panubu Sirommon Cuisine (Entry No. 2) that reigned supreme, also winning P10,000. Fiesta na Isla, Pabor ya Anda y Pruba El Diamon Comida (Entry No. 1) claimed second prize, and Tita Babe’s Group (Entry No. 3) secured third, receiving the same prizes as their Panubigan counterparts.
To honor all participants’ dedication and talent, even the non-winning teams were awarded P3,000 each, a gesture that highlighted the festival’s inclusive and celebratory spirit.
More Than Just Food
While competition fueled the excitement, the event was more than just a culinary contest. It served as a platform to celebrate local cuisine, boost eco-tourism, and uplift traditional food providers. It also strengthened the identity of the Once Islas destination as not just a scenic getaway, but a gastronomic adventure.
The festival was graced by City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian and her staff, alongside local vloggers, barangay leaders, curious foreign guests, and proud residents who filled the island with applause, laughter, and satisfied smiles.
From colorful food displays to the aroma of grilled seafood wafting through the sea breeze, the Once Islas Food Festival beautifully captured the essence of Zamboanga’s culture: rich, diverse, and deeply rooted in community pride.
As the sun set on Baung-Baung, the festival closed not just with full stomachs, but with hearts equally nourished by tradition, creativity, and unity. The event marked another flavorful chapter in Zamboanga’s Verano Festival—and a reminder that the islands are as much about heritage and hospitality as they are about breathtaking views.