A giant bilao of "okoy" or vegetable fritters measuring 16 ft diameter drew foodies and local tourists to Baliuag, Bulacan over the weekend to partake of the province's rich culinary heritage.

Members of the community gathered and witnessed the unveiling of the giant Okoy Bilao last Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024, at SM City Baliwag wherein the celebration was headed by Mayor Ferdinand Estrella (3rd from left), and wife Jonnah Nubla-Estrella (center) with Bulacan PHACTO Head Dr. Eliseo de la Cruz (2nd from right); Okoy King proprietor Carol Reyes (3rd from right), SM City Baliwag Mall Manager Rodora Tolentino (left), Provincial Consultant to the Office of Governor  Daniel R. Fernando, Crispin de Luna (2nd from left), and Office of the Vice Governor’s representative and Local Legislative Staff Officer Jubairah De Leon (right). (Freddie Velez)

Baliuag City Mayor Ferdie Estrella, the team from Okoy King, the Provincial History Arts, Culture and Tourism Office (PHACTO), and representatives of Governor Daniel Fernando and Vice Governor Alexis Castro led the unveiling of the Giant Okoy Bilao at SM Baliuag on Saturday, Sept. 21.

Estrella said the celebration included the launching of Baliwag's "Bestival Chef" in line with SM's Foodie Festival campaign.

The City Mayor thanked the Provincial Government of Bulacan and the Bulakenyos, including students who attended the celebration and enjoyed the crispy deep-fried fritters, a popular dish in Bulacan usually served at breakfast, as appetizers or snacks.

Estrella said the giant bilao yielded 2,400 servings of okoy to shoppers. He said okoy remains to be a favorite among locals and tourists and has evolved into different varieties.

PHACTO head Dr. Eliseo Dela Cruz called the creation of the giant okoy as historic because it is the first time that people saw the delicacy in giant proportions. At least 200 kilograms of shredded squash were used in making the fritters.