The much-anticipated KATHA Award for FOOD 2026 is now open for exhibitors of IFEX Philippines 2026, spotlighting the country’s most innovative food products and vibrant tropical flavors.
Organized by Center for International Trade Expositions and Missions (CITEM), the awards program champions creativity, excellence, and global competitiveness among Philippine food MSMEs, including emerging export players.
Set alongside the 19th edition of IFEX Philippines happening on May 21–23, 2026 at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, the recognition program offers winners and nominees valuable opportunities for brand visibility, industry leadership, and international market expansion.
Celebrating Storytelling and Cultural Integrity
More than a competition, the KATHA Award for FOOD celebrates the heritage and diversity of Filipino cuisine while encouraging innovation in a rapidly evolving global food landscape.
“Beyond the trophy, the KATHA Award is a seal of Philippine excellence that signals to the global market that our product is world-class, culturally rooted, and innovatively crafted,” said Leah Pulido Ocampo.
She added that the program helps accelerate the journey of Filipino food brands from local kitchens to international markets by placing MSMEs in the global spotlight.
Categories and New Recognitions
One winner will be selected across nine food product categories, including:
- Bakery Products and Confectioneries
- Meat, Poultry, and Dairy
- Functional, Health, and Alternative Foods
- Processed Fruits and Vegetables (including sauces and condiments)
- Seafood
- Snacks and Ready-to-Eat
- Specialty and Gourmet
- Pulses and Grains
In addition, awards will be given for Best Packaging Design and Best Booth Presentation (Individual, Regional, and Group categories).
Two new special citations debut this year:
- Gastronomy Award – recognizing exceptional culinary applications and product innovation
- NXTFOOD PH – highlighting up to 10 emerging food products with strong future market potential
Driving Industry Excellence and Global Reach
Eligible products must be part of the Flavor Finds showcase at IFEX Philippines 2026, a curated platform featuring innovative, export-ready food products from across Philippine regions and ASEAN markets. Participation in Flavor Finds automatically qualifies exhibitors for KATHA Award nomination.
Winners can expect exclusive benefits, including participation in future IFEX editions, access to strategic marketing channels, and opportunities to join international trade fairs under CITEM’s FOODPhilippines program.
Food Storytelling Takes Center Stage
This year’s awards will also coincide with the announcement of new FOODPhilippines Advocates Par Excellence—key voices championing Filipino food on the global stage.
Leading the lineup is award-winning content creator Abi Marquez, returning for her third year as an advocate. She previously shared the spotlight with notable food personalities including Clang Garcia, Erwan Heussaff, and Raine Cabral Laysico.
Marquez emphasized the importance of digital storytelling in elevating Filipino food brands, while Heussaff noted: “Filipino food doesn’t need to be elevated—it needs to be communicated, discovered, and built upon.”
How to Join
Applications for the KATHA Award for FOOD 2026 are open until March 31, 2026. Interested participants must register as Flavor Finds exhibitors to qualify.
