Every city has a flavor that defines it and for Tagum, that flavor is undeniably Humba. But this year, the Humba Festival 2025 didn’t just celebrate a dish, it celebrated a community rising, cooking, and creating together. With NutriAsia stepping in as a major partner, the three-day event became a showcase of Tagum’s growing culinary pride and its mission to boost tourism through food, culture, and community.
Held from November 12 to 14, Tagum transformed into a bustling kitchen of ideas, flavors, and friendly competitions. As the Philippines’ leading maker of beloved condiments and sauces, NutriAsia brought more than just its products — it brought an energy that empowered both professionals and young talents to explore what Filipino cooking can become. Known for household staples like Datu Puti, Silver Swan, Papa, UFC, Jufran, Mang Tomas, and more, NutriAsia strengthened its role as Tagum’s No. 1 partner for cooking solutions throughout the festival.
The festivities kicked off with a dynamic culinary demo led by Chef Decker Gokioco, whose creativity drew in hotel owners, chefs, restaurateurs, and Tagum’s own homegrown culinary professionals. His session wasn’t just a demonstration; it was an invitation for the city to innovate while staying loyal to the familiar warmth of Visayan flavors. Audiences witnessed how NutriAsia’s Taste of Success program continues to champion culinary skill and the art of elevating classic Filipino dishes.
On November 13, day two heated up with professional-level competitions designed to celebrate precision, talent, and creativity. Chefs battled it out in NutriAsia’s Culinary Professional Competition, while beverage specialists crafted their best blends in the Professional Blended Juice Drink category. One of the festival’s highlights came in the afternoon as barangay representatives presented their modern twists on Humba, reminding everyone that Tagum’s signature dish is more than just pork braised in soy sauce — it’s a symbol of community pride.
Grand Champion – Cafe Angelo
1st runner up – Klaire’s Bistro
2nd runner up – Tea Barrel Cafe
The final day was all about the next generation. Student-chefs from Tagum, Panabo, Davao, and nearby cities stepped into the spotlight for the Inter-School Culinary Competition, each presenting a signature Humba dish that blended tradition with contemporary flair. The excitement continued with the Mocktail and Cocktail Showdown, where students showcased not just technique, but confidence and creativity behind the bar.
By the festival’s end, Tagum didn’t just crown winners — it celebrated its spirit. With NutriAsia’s support, this fifth Humba Festival proved how food can drive tourism, strengthen local pride, and inspire both seasoned professionals and young aspirants to dream bigger. More than a dish, more than a festival, this is a testament to the power of Filipino cuisine in bringing communities together while honoring the heritage that makes Tagum’s Humba truly remarkable.
