WHEREAS, the 1987 Constitution provides that the State shall foster the preservation, enrichment, and dynamic evolution of a Filipino national culture based on the principle of unity in diversity in a climate of free artistic and intellectual expression and shall conserve, promote, popularize the nation's historical and cultural heritage, and resources;

WHEREAS, the 1987 Constitution also states that the State shall provide support to agriculture through appropriate technology and research, and adequate financial, production, marketing, and other support services;

WHEREAS, under the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act No. 10066 or the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, culinary tradition is recognized as part of our cultural heritage which may be utilized to highlight a nation's character and foster national pride and sense of belonging;

WHEREAS, our vast culinary tradition and treasures should be appreciated, preserved and promoted to ensure their transmission to future generations and to support the various industries, farmers and agri -communities which benefit therefrom;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE, President of the Philippines, by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and existing laws, do hereby declare the whole month of April of every year as "Buwan ng Kalutong Pilipino" or "Filipino Food Month."

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) shall lead the above celebration. All departments, bureaus and agencies of the national government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations, and state universities and colleges, are hereby directed, and local government units and the private sector are encouraged, to participate and assist in the activities of the celebration.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the Republic of the Philippines to be affixed.

Done in the City of Manila, this 3rd day of April , in the year of Our Lord, Two Thousand and Eighteen.

(SGD.) RODRIGO ROA DUTERTE

By the President:

(SGD.) SALVADOR C. MEDIALDEA
Executive Secretary