Philippines’ 1st Vegan Festival, Vegfest Pilipinas 2016

You’ve heard of vegan festivals in Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Atlanta, and other major cities in the United States. You’ve also heard of vegan festivals in other countries like Germany, UK, Australia, and Thailand, but nothing from the Philippines. That’s about to change.  For the first time in history, the Philippines will have its own all-vegan festival. Vegfest Pilipinas 2016 will feature vegan vendors, speakers, classes, workshops, and of course, food! How I wish I could fly myself there and immerse myself with all the vegan Filipino goodness.

I heard the event is already getting plenty of love from major sponsors. Renowned vegan chefs, speakers, and celebrities will be there too. Plus, an expo will showcase vegan businesses and their products like vegan ice cream, vegan cheeses, meat alternatives, and bread. The expo will also feature vegan clothes, shoes, bags, and many more.

 

I remember when Vegfest Pilipinas was still an idea.  I was going to meet a social media friend, Jaq Abergas, in person for the first time. Jaq was visiting San Francisco from the Philippines. Jaq and I hit it off right away as if we’ve been long time friends. Chris and I took her around our favorite spots and I remember Jaq telling me that her and her friends at “Manila Vegans” group, were thinking of putting together an all-vegan festival because it’s about time the Philippines has one.

She was telling me I should be part of it and perhaps hold a food demonstration. I told her I would love and be honored to but the timing of flying back to the Philippines is a little off. Fast forward little later and before I know it, Vegfest Pilipinas is now a reality and will take place in few weeks. Jaq and I joked that because I couldn’t make it this year, I’m already booked for the next one. No qualms here. I’d probably be the first one to show up – and eat!

If you’re in Manila, I highly encourage you to check out Vegfest Pilipinas. Please show up so I could see photos! haha! Kidding aside, I think Vegfest Pilipinas is a wonderful cause. It shows that the vegan community in the Philippines is not only present, it’s alive and thriving. The first-ever Vegfest Pilipinas will be a testament to the world that the concept of vegan Filipino is not a contradiction, that we do know a thing or two about compassion, sustainability, and health, while maintaining and celebrating our Filipino roots and culture.

I’m looking forward to hear your report back and hopefully see you at VegFest Pilipinas 2.0!