The streets of Barangay Pasil and Suba in Cebu City were filled with the distinct, savory aroma of a beloved local dish for the 11th Tuslob Buwa Festival. Held on January 8, 2026, the event proved that this unique culinary tradition remains a vibrant and unifying force for the community, connecting its past to the present.
A Feast for the Masses: 300 Tables of Flavor
Organizers estimated that a staggering 300 tables were set up in Barangay Suba alone to accommodate the crowds eager to partake in the tuslob buwa. The festival transformed into a massive public feast, with the scent of sizzling pork brain and spices permeating the air. Barangay Captain Francisco De Gracia Jr. emphasized that the event was more than just a meal; it was a gift from the community, offered freely to all visitors with an open heart.
From Humble Eats to Symbol of Pride
What began in the early 2000s as a budget-friendly meal for students and workers has evolved into a powerful symbol of pride for Pasil and Suba. The dish, a rich and hearty concoction made from pork brain, liver, and intestines, has historically sustained many families in the area. The festival solidifies its status as a cornerstone of local culture and livelihood.
Personal Stories of Success
The human impact of this tradition was embodied by 80-year-old Nanay Cecilia Rondina. With 15 years of selling tuslob buwa, her small business became the foundation for her family's success, allowing her to raise and support her children and grandchildren. Her story is one of thousands that illustrate why this festival is cherished so deeply by residents.
A Celebration with a Gentle Reminder
Amid the celebration and enjoyment, the community did not forget to promote mindful consumption. Recognizing the dish's high cholesterol content, residents and organizers advised everyone to enjoy tuslob buwa in moderation. The message was clear: savor the festival's flavors responsibly to maintain health while partaking in the fun.
As the 11th edition of the festival concluded, the people of Pasil and Suba demonstrated once again that unity and tradition are the most essential ingredients in any recipe for success. The event was covered by interns Seth Odyssey, A. Illusorio, and Eliana Marie D. Auguis from Cebu City Don Carlos A. Gothong Memorial National High School.
