By Emmanuel T. Erediano
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Variety News Staff
MEMBERS of the public enjoyed a five-course meal featuring local delicacies at the Commonwealth Jubilee’s “Heritage on a Plate” event held Monday at the Garapan Fishing Base.
The event is part of the Celebration of Unity and Heritage as the CNMI participates in America 250, the semiquincentennial celebration of Independence Day.
Appetizers were presented by Chef Franklin G. Reyes and Fred B. Robert, who served kelaguen guihan, or raw fish with lemon juice; Chef Keolani Rios; and Chris C. Sablan, who served finadenni biringhenas, or eggplant in coconut milk with lemon and hot pepper.
Two soups were featured: Chef Eloy Cabrera and his sister Olinka Chaudry served charakilis, or rice soup, while Chef Esterlita B. Camacho and Rosa Marie B. Pangelinan served tinaktak katnin guaka, or beef tinaktak.
Main dishes were prepared by Chef Geraldine B. Angel and Frank Angel, who served inaflitun ghihan yan finadeni, or fish with soy sauce mix, and Chef Stanley B. Aldan and Edmond H. Borja, who served kaddun pika.
Salads were prepared by Frankie Jess Chikoa Ramon and Jessica Rasiang, who served fire-roasted breadfruit salad, and Rowina T. Ogo and Josiah Castro, who served fresh green papaya and cucumber salad.
Desserts were prepared by Chef Eusebio C. Borja, who served saibuk aga, and Miss Northern Marianas Descent Siana F. Tasi and first runner-up Dayna A.G. Hocog, who served coconut candy.
Humanities Council Executive Director Leo Pangelinan, who chairs CNMI America 250, said “Heritage on a Plate” showcased the passion, creativity, and commitment of local chefs in preserving culture.
“They are the storytellers of this event,” Pangelinan said, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to experience their culinary work.
He also thanked attendees for joining the celebration and encouraged them to learn the stories behind each dish and appreciate not only the flavors but also the history and meaning they carry.
Indigenous Affairs Office Resident Executive Luella Marciano, whom Pangelinan credited for organizing the event with the help of interns, introduced the 10 local chefs and their dishes. She noted that all food was offered free of charge and invited attendees to visit each station.
Senate Vice President Corina L. Magofna, vice chair of CNMI America 250, delivered the closing remarks.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
