The Philippines on Friday created the Guinness World Record for the most variety of pork dishes on display, the first in such category.

Guinness official adjudicator Sonia Usjirohochi said a total of 313 unique pork dishes were served by the participants.

The announcement of the world record coincided with the celebration of National Hog Day at Gateway 2 in Cubao, Quezon City.

“More than 323 have participated in this festival, each bringing unique pork dishes nationwide,” National Federation of Hog Farmers vice chairman Alfred Ng said.

The participants included restaurant owners, chefs, culinary schools and students, and cooking moms.

“We’re hoping that the hog festival could intensify tourism in the country, focusing on our rich tradition of cooking Filipino dishes using pork,” he said.

He added that the festival also allows hog producers to connect and network with the institutional market like restaurants and hotels to reduce the importation of pork.

The festival runs from March 1 to 5. The culminating event will be held at the Marikina Convention Center.

Faster recovery

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., meanwhile, assured the hog industry of the government’s support, particularly in speeding up its recovery against the effects of African swine fever (ASF).

In a statement, Laurel said it is imperative to ensure early detection and swift response to control its spread.

“Our immediate focus involves reinforcing biosecurity measures, enhancing quarantine protocols, and implementing robust sanitation practices in hog farms nationwide to prevent further outbreaks,” Laurel said as he joined the celebration of Hog Festival 2024.

He also underscored the need to work with technical and industry experts, as well as with counterparts abroad to maximize innovative solutions and apply their best practices against ASF.

“Extensive public awareness campaign is a priority to educate farmers, industry stakeholders, and the public about preventive measures against ASF. Knowledge is a powerful tool, and through awareness, we aim to empower everyone to contribute to the eradication of ASF,” he added.

Likewise, Laurel vowed to continue financial aid and recovery programs for affected farmers.

In September last year, the country’s total inventory of pig heads dropped to 9.86 million, lower than 10.1 million pig heads in the same period in 2022. (PNA)