Now that the world is slowly opening up to the pleasure of physical travel, those who are still
hesitant to get out of the country can find comfort in exploring familiar or unchartered territories through fantastic food and merchandise.
On Sunday, June 12, 2022, the International Bazaar Foundation, Inc. (IBF) in cooperation with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) together with the support of SM Mall Of Asia, will be hosting SHOP, TASTE & CELEBRATE, IBF’s first bazaar since the pandemic. The event will be held at the SM MOA Music Hall from 10am – 10pm.
Participating countries include Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Cambodia, China, Denmark, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Peru, Romania, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Syria, Tanzania, Thailand, Ukraine, Viet Nam, and the United Arab Emirates.
Keep an eye out for manuka honey from New Zealand, juices from South Africa, Ceylon tea products from Sri Lanka, various pastries and delectable desserts from Syria, and local fabrics and weaves from the HABI Foundation and Dita Sandico.
This fund-raising bazaar aims to foster and strengthen the friendship shared between the Philippines and the rest of the world, all while raising awareness through sumptuous food, music, and signature products.
Alongside this mini-bazaar, the much-anticipated ASEAN Food Fest will be showcasing
signature dishes and various cuisines from the various ASEAN member states. From small plates to big bites, the ASEAN fest will satisfy those who are craving to know more about our cultures, heritage, and of course, good food.
Try Brunei Darussalam’s Nasi Pusu with Egg or Cambodia’s favorite breakfast dish, Num Banh Chok Khmer. Indonesia will be highlighting their famous Sate Ayam and Nasi Goreng while Lao PDR’s refreshing salad of papaya, chicken, and sticky rice, which is a combination that is sure to be interesting.
Foodies will enjoy two iterations of Malaysia’s Nasi Lemak, a dish with rice soaked in coconut milk and served with a side of either Beef Rendang or Spiced Fried Chicken. Experience Myanmar’s unofficial national dish with a heaping bowl of Mohinga—a rice noodle soup served in a hearty fish-and-shallot-based broth.
From our own shores, the ASEAN Fest will feature unmistakable Filipino specialties such as Via Mare’s Pancit Luglog, Puto Bungbong, and Bibinka. Ensaymada from Baby Pat Breads and Pastries updated with such flavors as peanut butter choc nut will also be for sale. There will also be Laksa from Singapore, Bagoong Fried Rice and Shrimp Pad Thai from Thailand, and Banh Mi from Viet Nam.
For the last 56 years, the IBF has been hosting the International Bazaar that raises funds to uplift the lives of the less-privileged. Mme. Maria Lourdes B. Locsin, chairperson of the two foundations, Ambassadors of the participating Embassies, dignitaries, friends, and special guests of both the ALF and the IBF, are expected to be in attendance for this celebration of food and camaraderie between countries.
