He objectively judged a government-published book by its pages. In return was a legal complaint that dared to silence freedom of expression and constructive criticism.
Calling out blatant exploitation and misrepresentation of Filipino culinary traditions is nothing new for Lokalpedia founder and food archivist John Sherwin Felix. Known for his advocacy to champion Filipino food heritage, Felix has made it his mission to ensure the country’s food traditions are documented and represented accurately.
However, that advocacy recently led to a legal battle. Felix is now facing cyberlibel charges after publicly pointing out alleged inaccuracies in the recipe book “Kayumanggi: A Kaleidoscope of Filipino Flavors and Food Tradition,” authored by fellow food advocate Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor in cooperation with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
The DTI published “Kayumanggi” through its Malikhaing Pinoy Program in April 2025, coinciding with Filipino Food Month. The book received praise from several institutions and media outlets for highlighting Filipino food heritage.
The publication features more than 150 recipes of Filipino dishes, ranging from popular classics such as adobo, dinuguan, and mechado to heirloom dishes including pancit batil patong, kadyos baboy langka (KBL), and tiyula itum.
Errors raised
Felix obtained a copy of the book in September 2025. After reviewing it, he said he identified several inaccuracies, particularly in the listed ingredients and preparation methods for dishes such as pancit batil patong, KBL, and tiyula itum.
He raised these concerns through the Lokalpedia platform and reached out to individuals and agencies involved in the project.
Felix argued that a government-backed publication documenting Filipino cuisine should meet high standards of research and accuracy, especially since it represents the country’s culinary heritage.
Since the book was produced using public funds, he said the agencies involved should address concerns raised by culinary experts and historians. Felix said he did not receive a response after flagging the alleged errors.
He continued posting about the issue online, including a critique of the book’s title “Kayumanggi,” which he argued oversimplifies the skin color of Filipinos.
Despite the criticisms, the book later gained international recognition at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, where it was named Best Asian Food Culture Book in the World.
Cyberlibel complaint
On February 25, Felix said he finally received a response—but not the one he expected.
Instead of addressing the concerns, the author of the book filed cyberlibel charges against him, alleging that his posts were made with malicious intent.
If convicted, Felix could face up to 12 years in prison under the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 or Republic Act 10175.
Felix and his legal counsel have filed a counter-affidavit seeking the dismissal of the complaint.
The case has drawn support from several advocates, content creators, and cultural organizations, including Sassa Gurl, Jerry B. Grácio, Celine Murillo, Dennis Murillo, and the Cagayan Heritage Conservation Society.
Niño Kevin Baclig of the Tuguegarao City Culture and Arts Council also challenged Melchor to prepare pancit batil patong in front of them so, as he put it, “the people who actually live and breathe this culinary tradition judge whether the book honors their heritage—or caricatures it.”
Felix and his supporters are currently raising funds to cover legal expenses related to the case.
With Filipino Food Month approaching again alongside the first anniversary of the book’s release, “Kayumanggi”—once widely praised—now faces growing criticism from scholars and culinary professionals who question its accuracy.
“Kayumanggi,” a government-backed publication documenting Filipino cuisine should meet high standards of research and accuracy, especially since the book represents the country’s culinary heritage.
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