By: James Murillo Elaco
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Hala Kumbira 2024 officially began today with an exciting prelude
event themed “KEEPING TRADITIONS AND GROWING INNOVATIONS.” This opening event
sets the stage for the upcoming 28th KUMBIRA Masters Live Competition and Culinary Show, scheduled for October 16-18, 2024, at the Limketkai Center Atrium. The event is organized by the Cagayan de Oro Hotel and Restaurant Association (COHARA).
Jeffrey Limbonhai, President of COHARA, spoke about the importance of this year’s Kumbira in preserving cultural traditions while also encouraging modern ideas. “Kumbira 2024 aims to support this push and this growth by promoting and sharing our cultural heritage, experience, and knowledge with every Kagay-anon, Mindanaoan, and Filipino. We keep ourselves alive by keeping our traditions alive,” Limbonhai said.
This year’s Kumbira is the biggest and most respected culinary events in the country. This grand culinary event will host over 50 exhibitors, attract more than 5,000 attendees, and feature over 300 participants from across various regions, cementing its status as a premier culinary competition and showcase in the Philippines.
The theme of this year’s event highlights the need to balance tradition with innovation in a world that is always changing. Limbonhai acknowledged the challenges facing the culinary industry today, such as rising prices, tough competition, and high expectations. “With Kumbira 2024, we aim to address these issues by also promoting topics concerning best practices, innovative techniques, and sustainability. We have the responsibility to promote ourselves so that we may create a better society and a better world,” he added.
The event has also received strong support from local government officials. Hon. Suzette G.
Magtajas-Daba, City Councilor for District 2, represented City Mayor of Cagayan de Oro, Hon. Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy, and delivered a message on his behalf. The message emphasized that Kumbira is more than just a culinary competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, passion, and the drive to excel in the culinary arts. “It is a platform where professionals, students, and passionate homemakers come together, united,” the message stated.
Mayor Uy also praised COHARA for their hard work in organizing the event year after year. “To the organizers of COHARA, your dedication and commitment to this event over the years have been nothing short of extraordinary. You have created a legacy that continues to elevate our city, attracting talent and fostering a spirit of camaraderie in the culinary world. Your efforts have not only enriched our local culinary scene but have also placed Cagayan de Oro City on the map as a center of culinary innovation and tradition in Northern Mindanao.”
As Hala Kumbira 2024 begins, it is clear that this event is more than just a showcase of cooking skills. It is a celebration of culture, new ideas, and the ongoing quest for excellence. With the main event just a few months away, excitement is building in Cagayan de Oro City, as the community looks forward to another memorable Kumbira. (JME/OB)
