The United States is rolling out a series of promotions in the Philippines throughout April and May to highlight the quality and versatility of U.S. food products. These events mark the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic relations and the Freedom 250 celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. The initiative aims to expand market access for U.S. agribusiness in the Philippines.
American Restaurant Month
In partnership with the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), ten top Philippine restaurants are participating in American Restaurant Month. From April 13 to May 13, these establishments—including 25 Seeds, Bizu Patisserie and Café, Café Fleur, Cyma, Dickey's Barbeque Pit, Farmer's Table, Mamou, One World Deli, Souv, and The Split—will offer special dishes featuring U.S. beef, poultry, and specialty ingredients. The menus range from USDA ribeye steaks and duck confit to American cheeses, available across 32 locations.
Trade Mission and Key Partnerships
Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering led a U.S. Agribusiness Trade Mission to the Philippines. She emphasized that the initiative underscores the strong bilateral partnership and the high quality of U.S. products. The USDA is also collaborating with The Marketplace and Metro Supermarket to promote American food and beverages, including meat, poultry, cheese, and blueberries. At The Marketplace Parqal Mall in Parañaque City, shoppers can enjoy “Authentic American Flavors,” while Metro Supermarket’s Market! Market! location in Taguig City hosts the “Great American Food Fest” from April 13 to 26.
Bekkering noted, “American farmers and ranchers are proud to supply high-quality products to Filipino consumers. We value our partnership with Filipino retailers who bring the best of American agriculture to Filipino households.”
Awarding of Key Partners
On April 14, Bekkering awarded eight Filipino organizations for their contributions to bilateral trade and food security. The recipients include Century Pacific Food, Inc., Dane International Commodities, Inc., Jetti Petroleum, Inc., Meat Importers and Traders Association, Philippine Association of Feed Millers, Inc., Philippine Association of Flour Millers, Inc., Philippine Association of Meat Processors, Inc., and Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Y. Robert Ewing stated, “This recognition reflects the strength of the U.S.-Philippine trade relationship. It is an auspicious occasion to honor this inaugural class as we celebrate 80 years of diplomatic ties.”
The Philippines ranks as the tenth largest market for U.S. agricultural exports, averaging $3.4 billion annually over the past five years. Galing USA, a USDA initiative through the U.S. Embassy’s Foreign Agricultural Service, promotes high-quality U.S. food and beverage products in the Philippine market.
