TABUK CITY, Kalinga – The rich culinary traditions of the Cordillera region were showcased at the recent Matagoan Pinikpikan Cooking Competition, held beside the Tabuk City Tennis Court on June 17, 2025. This event brought together local chefs and culinary enthusiasts to celebrate and preserve the indigenous dish, pinikpikan.
The competition drew participants from 20 barangays of Tabuk City, each bringing their unique twist to the traditional dish using salt, etag (smoked meat) and ginger as their core ingredients. Contestants were evaluated based on several criteria, including workplace safety, cleanliness and neatness during the slaughtering process, completeness and compliance with preparation requirements, overall workmanship, and the final taste and presentation of the dishes.
According to Dr. Carmen Wanas, the contest was designed to preserve indigenous knowledge and foster greater appreciation for traditional food systems that have evolved over generations.“Pinikpikan has always held cultural significance, historically served during special occasions,” she said. “That’s why it is timely and meaningful that we celebrate it now, as part of the 2025 Matagoan Festival.”
The Top 3 winners of the competition were: Jocelyn Bo-og, and Sanwright Lobhoy of Barangay Bulanao – 1st Place; Harold King Albert and Razen Albert of Barangay Naneng – 2nd Place; and Claire Ann Agyao and Lloyd Mar R. Sapla of Barangay Calanan – 3rd Place. By Eisenhower Bucalen
