THINK RICE, THINK THAILAND

Taguig City, Philippines – August 4, 2025 – The aroma of fragrant Thai rice filled the air at a recent promotional event held at the award-winning Mango Tree Restaurant in Bonifacio High Street Central. Organized by Thailand's Department of Foreign Trade (DFT), Ministry of Commerce, in collaboration with the Thai Rice Exporters Association and the Thai Trade Center in Manila, the event showcased the exceptional qualities of Thai rice to Filipino consumers and strengthened bilateral trade relations.

Presiding over the event, Mrs. Chanintorn Rimcharone, Deputy Director-General of the DFT, highlighted the growing popularity of Thai rice in the Philippines. The event aimed to further increase awareness and appreciation through engaging presentations and an immersive culinary experience. Attendees discovered the unique characteristics, nutritional benefits, and versatility of Thai rice, establishing it as a high-quality option for both home cooks and the food service industry.

A live cooking demonstration by skilled Thai chefs and VIPs was a major highlight, participated by Her Excellency Mrs. Makawadee Sumitmor, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines and Mrs. Chanintorn Rimcharone, Deputy Director-General of the DFT, and I was also invited to taste the Green Curry with Chicken and it tastes so good!.

The demo cooking dishes included crowd-pleasing favorites like shrimp paste fried rice, sticky rice with longan in coconut cream, and creamy chicken curry. (see photos for the recipes)

All event guests were also treated to authentic Thai dishes prepared by The Mango Tree Restaurant (a Thai restaurant certified with the Thai Select) with premium Thai rice, showcasing its seamless integration into everyday meals. This interactive experience allowed participants to fully appreciate the taste, texture, and diverse applications of Thai rice. Beyond the cooking demonstration, Mango Tree Restaurant offered a special menu featuring Thai rice, available to the public. This included appetizers like rice crackers and Thai pork with sticky rice in fermented fish sauce; main courses such as Tom Yum Seafood, Green Curry Chicken, and Spicy and Tangy Spareribs with Shrimp Paste Rice; dessert of Sticky Rice with Longgan; and refreshing Thai Iced Tea. Exporters, VIPs, and media representatives also participated in engaging event games.

Mrs. Rimcharone emphasized the event's significance in strengthening Thailand's rice export sector and deepening engagement with international markets. She stated, "This event is a testament to our ongoing efforts to promote the excellence of Thai rice and foster a stronger agricultural partnership with the Philippines. The enthusiastic response from Filipino consumers is incredibly encouraging, and we are committed to expanding the reach and accessibility of Thai rice within this key market."

The event was more than just a culinary showcase; it was a celebration of cultural exchange and collaboration, built upon a shared love of food and a commitment to strengthening trade relations between Thailand and the Philippines. The success of this event promises a bright future for Thai rice in the Philippine market.

- Marianne Sy I Lokal Feature Philippines I Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/lokalfeatureph/