Filipino-Australian entrepreneur Siggy Bacani is spearheading a movement to introduce Filipino flavors to Australian consumers, from craft beers to wines and liqueurs. With some Philippine-made beers now available nationwide in Australia, Bacani has observed a growing interest in Filipino ingredients and culinary traditions, a trend that mirrors broader shifts in the Australian food and beverage scene.
In a recent interview with SBS Filipino, Bacani, the owner of 7,000 Islands, highlighted the increasing recognition of Filipino flavors, particularly the distinctive taste of ube, a purple yam that is central to many Filipino desserts. Bacani described his efforts to educate Australian customers about the uniqueness of ube, emphasizing that it should be appreciated for its distinct “earthy texture” and “subtly sweet” flavor. Rather than comparing it to other ingredients like taro, Bacani is focused on establishing ube as a Filipino culinary identity.
“We need to own ube, champion it, and put our brand on it,” Bacani explained. “I describe it as so moreish that you’ll want more and more once you try it.”
Bacani’s optimism about the future of Filipino cuisine in Australia is bolstered by the success of Engkanto Brewery, a Filipino-owned company that has made waves in the Australian market. At the 2024 World Beer Awards, Engkanto’s High Hive Honey Ale was named the World’s Best Beer in its category, and its Paint Me Purple Ube Lager also took home prestigious awards. Bacani sees this success as a sign that Filipino flavors are becoming increasingly popular and recognized on the global stage.
Looking ahead, Bacani encourages other aspiring Filipino-Australian entrepreneurs to follow suit and explore opportunities in the food and beverage industry. “Try starting a business and representing our flavors. Filipino-Aussie entrepreneurs are here to help,” he said, noting that while competition exists, it fosters a collaborative environment where all can thrive.
As Filipino cuisine and products continue to carve a niche in Australia, Bacani remains hopeful that the rising interest in Filipino flavors will pave the way for more opportunities for entrepreneurs and cultural exchange between the two nations.
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