In its pursuit to promote cultural heritage and highlight the rich tapestry of Sorsogon, Sorsogon State University – Castilla Campus, in partnership with Gulay Pa More, successfully conducted a two-day Gulay Pa More – Sorsogon Exhibits, Learning Sessions, and Workshops on November 7–8, 2025, at the Farmers Training Center. The initiative aimed to holistically promote wellness and cultural heritage by encouraging healthy eating habits, community engagement, and the celebration of local traditions.
Centered on the theme “Let’s PILGUD (Pili, Gulaman, Unod) in Sorsogon and Work Towards Progressive Foodways,” the event featured agricultural exhibits, engaging learning sessions, and workshops. Each session explored insightful topics related to the theme, which were then applied in hands-on workshops, such as weaving sessions led by local artisans and interactive cooking demonstrations highlighting Sorsogon’s signature ingredients. Through this collaborative effort, the event fostered a deeper appreciation of sustainable food practices, promoted healthier dietary choices aligned with vegan principles, and contributed to the socio-economic development of Sorsogon’s agricultural sector.
Day 1: Honoring Culture Through Crops
The day began with a short program preceding the festivities. Prof. Andrew F. Detera, Campus Director, welcomed participants and expressed his gratitude to the organizers. Building on this, Ms. Celine Murillo, Gulay Na! & GPM Organizer, highlighted the initiative’s mission to revive and celebrate local culture through native crops, describing them as a “map that speaks for the heritage and cultural wealth of the province.” Likewise, Dr. Ana Cristina G. Fortes, Director of the Office of Extension and Training, emphasized how each dish tells a unique story, deepening our connection to the culture it represents. Following this, Chef Laorence Castillo, Gulay Na! & GPM Organizer, provided an overview of the activities, noting how they were designed to showcase the traditions and natural resources of Sorsogon.
In the morning, the event featured presentations by distinguished speakers on indigenous and local resources, including pili, gulaman, and unod, aligned with the event’s theme. Dr. Marco Stefan B. Lagman, Professor at CBSUA, discussed Bicol’s Indigenous and Localized Crops. Following this, Mr. Joeriz P. Olbes, President of the Philippine Pili Industry League, shared insights on Cultural Management of Pili. Adding a marine perspective, Dr. Richard V. Dumilag, Professor and Seaweed Scientist at SorSU, highlighted Seaweed Ethnobotany.
In the afternoon, the session featured another set of distinguished speakers on solidarity for sustainability. Mr. Allan Espallardo, President of the Save Gubat Bay Movement, delivered an impactful presentation on Community Solidarity for the Environment. Sharing insights on how art can support environmental action, Mr. Gary “Dudz” Clotario of the Sorsogon Creative Industry Group showcased his works, ranging from 3D paper animation to advanced animation. The session concluded with a screening of one of his pieces, Pasintabi.
The day concluded with workshops on Nigo weaving and Karagumoy basket weaving, led by talented local artisans from Mayon, Castilla, Sorsogon, and Jamislagan, Bacon District, Sorsogon City, highlighting the artistry and resilience of local women weavers.
Day 2: Fostering Sustainability and Creativity
On the second day, the event emphasized sustainability, creativity, and mindful living. Mr. Romulo Yumul Jr. discussed the link between veganism and climate action, explaining how plant-based diets promote both environmental sustainability and personal wellness.
Participants then joined a culinary workshop led by Chef Cielo Castro-Magisa, who demonstrated innovative ice cream flavors using local ingredients such as pili, coconut, and black rice, blending tradition with modern creativity. The event concluded with a pottery workshop led by Mr. Raul Jareno and Ms. Vianca Domdom of the Sorsogon Creative Industry Group, where participants learned to mold and paint clay jars and pots, celebrating and preserving local Bicol artistry.
Through this initiative, SorSU Castilla Campus reaffirmed its mission of providing collaborative extension services for sustainable development by promoting indigenous crops, traditional crafts, and innovative approaches to food and art that benefit communities in Sorsogon and beyond.
