The battle of Cebu’s best flavors is on. This August, The Mactan Newtown plays host to the 2025 Cebu Lechon Festival, a multi-day celebration where kitchen talents converge in a feast that’s equal parts tradition and competition.
Four signature showdowns: Chef Wars, the Lechonero Competition, Culinary School Showdown and Paksiw Wars. In Chef Wars on August 7, fighting head-to-head in a high-stakes cook-off are Belmont Hotel Executive Chef Paolo Aviso, Savoy Hotel Executive Chef Coke Semblante, reigning Cebu’s Best Lechonero Henry Cui of Apo ni Bebie’s Lechon and viral TikTok sensation Jujumao, who has amassed over 70 million likes on the platform. Each contender brings their signature style to a fast-paced showdown.
Over at Cebu’s Best Lechonero on August 8, the spotlight is on tradition with long hours of roasting over open fire, secret marinades and generations-old methods that continue to define what makes Cebu’s lechon world-class.
On the same day, the Culinary School Showdown will feature young students crafting inventive three-course menus centered on lechon. They’ll step into the competitive kitchen for a chance to prove they’re not just learning the ropes but also ready to lead the next wave of Filipino cuisine.
Rounding it out is the Sugbuanon Paksiw Wars on August 10. This spirited student-led contest honors the beloved lechon paksiw, a delicious, comforting dish that breathes new life into leftover lechon. Young culinary talents will showcase their creativity and skill, transforming this traditional favorite into unique and flavorful variations. Festivalgoers will play a key role in voting for Cebu’s Favorite Paksiw 2025.
Hosted by Megaworld’s The Mactan Newtown in Lapu-Lapu City, the 2025 Cebu Lechon Festival runs from August 7 to 17 and features a full lineup that includes live music (on August 10, 15, and 17), local craft beers, daily live lechon roasting demonstrations, lechon art exhibits and family-friendly zones.