A Feast for the Senses and the Soul: "SARAP AND PALAYOK" Celebrates the Enduring Legacy of Doreen G Fernandez

More than just a book launch—it was a reunion. On 28 October 2025, the Doreen Black Box Theater and Salvador Bernal Lobby at Areté were filled with warmth, memories, and Filipino delicacies to celebrate the birthday of pioneering food writer and teacher, Doreen G Fernandez.

SARAP AND PALAYOK: THE DOREEN G FERNANDEZ LEGACY brought together former students, esteemed colleagues, and a new generation of admirers to celebrate the woman who taught the Philippines how to read its own culture through its food. The response from the community was a testament to her enduring influence.

The event, which also marked the much-anticipated relaunch of Fernandez's seminal books, "Sarap" and "Palayok," was a collaboration between Exploding Galaxies and Ateneo de Manila University's School of Humanities, Department of Communication, and the Ateneo Library of Women's Writings (ALiWW). It was also made possible through the generous support of the Kwan Laurel family.

The evening's formal program, held in the intimate setting of the Doreen Black Box Theater, was a journey through Fernandez's life and work. Guests were treated to a lively talk delivered by renowned food historian Felice Sta Maria titled, "A Nayánayá Moment: Celebrating the Filipino Food Writer." This was followed by a heartfelt conversation, as Sta Maria was joined by celebrated writers Micky Fenix and Neni Sta. Romana-Cruz, who shared personal anecdotes and reflections on Fernandez's mentorship and lasting impact. The conversation ended with a few warm memories of Fernandez from Joycie Alegre, husband to Edilberto N. Alegre, who was Fernandez’s dear friend and co-author for their book, Sarap. A special zarzuela performance of Hermogenes Ilagan and Leon Ignacio’s “Nabasag Ang Banga” by Solaiman Jamisolamin and Harrah Kay Castillo provided a poignant musical interlude that captured the spirit of the evening.

SARAP AND PALAYOK proved that Doreen Fernandez's legacy is not just preserved in her books, but is alive and well, continuing to nourish and inspire.

Sarap and Palayok are available on the Exploding Galaxies website at www.explodinggalaxies.com. Copies are also available in select branches of Fully Booked, National Book Store, and Kultura.