Tried and tested food favorites in the province of Ilocos Norte were given a twist last 5-9 July 2021 when Alaska Milk Corporation (AMC) conducted its AlasKabuhayan Livelihood and Nutrition session in the Cities of Laoag and Batac and in the Municipality of Banna.

In partnership with the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte and the Laoag City Public Market, a total of 110 micro and small entrepreneurs participated in a fun and interactive live cooking demonstration led by Chef Kai Padilla. Local favorites such as the famous Ilocos Empanada and Ginataang Kalabasa at Sitaw were given creamy new twists using Alaska Evaporada and Alaska Creamy Beef Evap.

Other recipes which the participants prepared were Creamy Chicken Curry, Fruit Salad ala Araw-Araw, and Ube Samalamig. All easy-to-prepare and affordable recipes can be used for their food businesses.

Since July is Nutrition Month, a discussion on nutrition immediately followed the cooking demonstration to orient participants about the importance of having a balanced and proper diet. AMC’s resident nutritionist-dietician, Ms. Cheryl Singson, gave the audience some tips and reminders how to have a healthy plate based on the national government’s Pinggang Pinoy food guide. This is part of AMC’s commitment to help educate the public on the importance of proper nutrition especially during the time of a global pandemic.

To end the program on a high note, some participants won a Halo-Halo Pangkabuhayan Showcase through a raffle draw. All attendees were then given an Alaskabuhayan starter kit that consists of culinary products that they can use in their business.

Ms. Elma Gabriel, officer-in-charge of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Office (MSMEO) of the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, said that they were grateful and delighted that Ilocos Norte was chosen to be part of the AlasKabuhayan program since the province’s economic growth was heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The AlasKabuhayan initiative gives a boost to Ilokano MSMEs on how to start or grow their food establishments.

Alaska Milk, through AlasKabuhayan, remains committed to go the extra mile in supporting communities, especially micro and small business owners, around the Philippines.

Agyamanak (Thank you), Ilocos Norte!