It seems like trying balut, or incubated duck eggs, is fast becoming a popular activity to try for diplomats and tourists alike as Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo Kazuya was seen having a taste of the Filipino street food delicacy during a visit in Isabela province.
(Left) First-time 'balut' eater Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo during his Isabela trip. Also in the photo is Senator Ramon 'Bong' Revilla Jr. (Photo from Amb. Endo via X post)
“While staying here in Isabela, I was also introduced to eating balut for the first time! What a fresh experience of something integral to Filipino cuisine and culture!,” he wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Jan. 27.
Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. was also seen in the video posted by the ambassador. The senator seemed to be teaching Endo how to eat the infamous balut.
In the video, Endo said it was the “first time” for him to eat the balut, then proceeded to give a thumbs up after having a taste.
But aside from the balut, which is commonly peddled along streets, the envoy was also able to get a taste of some fresh vegetables and produce in Isabela.
“Enjoyed a wide range of flavorful cuisines in the province of Isabela. Grateful for the chance to taste and savor the province’s fresh and delicious vegetables and produce!,” he said.
Expressing his delight to visit Isabela, called the Queen Province of the North, Endo posted photos of his visit with other ambassadors and colleagues from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).
“Had wonderful discussions with the governors, mayors, and leaders at each site of our visit,” he added.