The majestic lechon (roast pig) brings Zamboangueños and visitors together at the R.T. Lim Boulevard Sunday, October 5, as the city government holds the Asao Lechon Festival as part of the activities for the Zamboanga Hermosa 2025.

Mayor Khymer Olaso and Vice Mayor Beng Climaco together with other city officials and guests graced the Lechon Festival held under the auspices of the Office of City Veterinarian headed by Dr. Arcadio Cavan in partnership with the Zamboanga City Livestock and Poultry Board.

A total of 26 lechoneros and barangays participated in the festival and vied for the titles “tastiest lechon” and “best presentation” with valuable cash prizes.

Gozo’s lechon won both titles under the lechoneros category while barangay Culianan clinched both titles under the barangay category. Non-winners received consolation prize and plaques of participation.

The other participants were lechoneros Boy Natividad lechon, Romeo’s lechon, Eugene’s lechon, Ching’s lechon, Madrazo’s lecho, Cho-cho’s lechon, Rading’s lechon, Prince Tasty lechon, Damiles lechon, Excel’s lechon, JHR Native lechon, Juanito’s lechon, Jo’s lechon, Oink’s lechon and Boalan’s lechon and barangays Canelar, Maasin, Zambowood, Camino Nuevo, Tumaga, San Jose Cawa-cawa, San Roque, Ayala and Calarian.

The judges were renowned chefs Romeo Lovely, Vince Edward Chanand Stephen Bryle Gilbolingo. (CMO-PIO) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)