The Municipality of Pavia officially opened the Kapistahan Food Festival 2026, featuring 25 kiosks in a culinary competition centered on the theme “Pista sa Nayon.” Held as part of the town’s annual fiesta celebration, the festival highlighted the vibrant fusion of traditional Filipino cuisine and modern local flavors, with booths designed to reflect the festive atmosphere of a rural community.
Organized by the Local Employees’ Association of Pavia (LEAP), the event underscored the municipality’s commitment to preserving and promoting its culinary heritage. Participants presented a diverse selection of dishes, drawing both residents and visitors into a shared celebration of food and culture.
The competition, divided into Best Decorated Kiosk and Best Specialty of the House, was evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges composed of Dianne G. Herrera, Mall Operations Manager of Robinsons Place Iloilo; Susan P. Jovero, President of the Pavia LGU Retirees; and Carlo Jalandoni, Resident Chef of Agatona 1927 Museum Café. Mamba Bar & Restaurant emerged as the top performer, winning first place in both categories, followed by the LGBTQIA+ Pavia Chapter and Ma. Regina Dytioco in the kiosk category, and D*Twins by Jhowlien Pearl Jumayao and Gerry Dayaday in the house specialty category.
Mayor Luigi G. Gorriceta lauded the organizers and participants for their role in advancing Pavia’s food culture and proposed granting priority slots in future editions to this year’s top performers. The Kapistahan Food Festival continues to serve as a key platform for community engagement, celebrating local identity through cuisine and shared tradition.
