BACOLOD CITY – The community of Negros Occidental came together to honor the memory of celebrated chef Margarita ‘Gaita’ Fores, who died on February 11. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the tributes, recognizing Fores’ significant contributions to the region’s organic farming and slow food initiatives. Fores, who was 65, hailed from Bago City, the birthplace of her grandfather, Don J. Amado Araneta.
Governor Lacson praised Fores as a distinguished member of the Araneta family, a culinary innovator, and a passionate advocate for the local cuisine and heritage of Negros. Her son, Amado, shared the news of her passing on Instagram, asking for prayers during their time of grief.
Lacson highlighted Fores’ commitment to supporting local farmers and her active participation in the Negros Slow Food movement. He noted that her absence would be felt at future events like the annual Negros Trade Fair, where her enthusiasm and dedication had always been a source of inspiration.
Fores’ culinary expertise not only celebrated the rich heritage of Negros but also played a crucial role in elevating Filipino and Negrense cuisine, positioning Negros Occidental and Negros Island as top culinary destinations in the Philippines.
In Bago City, where Fores had celebrated her grandfather’s 115th birth anniversary in 2022, Mayor Nicholas Yulo and Vice Mayor Ramon Torres expressed their sorrow over her passing. Yulo remembered Fores as a pioneering figure who remained connected to her roots despite her busy life. Torres lauded her for her role in elevating Filipino cuisine, notably through her establishment of Cibo and other notable restaurants, which earned her the title of Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2016.
The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), which organizes the Negros Trade Fair, also paid tribute to Fores, acknowledging her deep ties to Negrense cuisine and her efforts in promoting and sharing it. The ANP praised her for her dedication to local ingredients, her work in enhancing Filipino flavors, and her mentorship within the culinary community. They noted that even outside the fair, Fores consistently sourced ingredients from local micro, small, and medium enterprises. At the media launch of the 38th Negros Trade Fair last year, Fores spoke passionately about Negrense ingredients, reflecting her enduring enthusiasm.