The Filipino culture is filled with fiestas and celebrations. However, during times of festivity, experts remind the public not to be complacent in ensuring food safety.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), a global independent public health and environmental organization, as food is often served during gatherings, food borne illnesses can become a problem if safety measures are neglected.
Just recently, the Higantes Festival or Feast of San Clemente was celebrated by residents of Angono, Rizal, inviting local and foreign spectators to partake in the annual tradition held every 23rd of November. The festival is the town's tribute to San Clemente, patron saint of fishermen.
The Festival highlights the parade of paper mache giant figures towering nearly 12-feet high. Clad in colorful full body costumes, these higantes are carried by residents around town.
In festivities such as this, it is common hospitality for Filipinos to serve and share food with family members, friends, and even to visitors.
"Dito sa Angono 'pag piyesta, lahat ng pagkain kailangan tumikim ka (Here in Angono, every fiesta, people are required to taste every type of food)," said Dr. Jose Eufracio Inspector Officer of Angono, Rizal.
Resident and higantes maker, Mang Toti, has continued the tradition not only of making higantes, but also serving food every Higantes Festival. Throughout his 30 years in the craft, he has produced nearly 200 figures with the help Angono residents.
"Dati ang mga ginagawang higante, mukha ng kastila, nung stage ko na, binago ko na yung konsepto, lahat ng bayani ng Pilipinas, presidente, at saka mga ordinaryong tao. (Before, images of higantes used to depict the Spaniards, but during our time, I decided to change the concept. I created images of Filipino heroes, presidents, and ordinary people)," he said.
Every year, Mang Toti invites relatives and friends who contributed to the building of the higantes to eat with his family. Because he value
