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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider Margarita

Margarita

Published Feb 18, 2025 04:26 pm

OFF THE BEATEN PATH

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We mourn the loss of a lady called Margarita and to this day, there are many among us who struggle with finding the words that best describe how Margarita Forés changed the Philippine culinary scene and how her championing efforts have won the hearts of so many.  How I wish I could speak the language of food that she so articulately expressed, but Margarita always found a way to share her untiring enthusiasm in the lilt of her voice, her contagious laughter and keen interest on things both mundane and relevant. 


Margarita’s name was not synonymous with politics, but her food resoundingly spoke of her love for country and all things Filipino. One only needs to look at her menu at Grace Park to get a glimpse of how she tirelessly searched markets, farms and local suppliers showcasing the best from the farthest and most unknown places, bringing into our tables amazing discoveries that were transformed through the gift of her hand and culinary genius. 


Margarita was a force to reckon with, and chose to dedicate her life for the betterment of others.  There is no louder testimony of this than the outpouring of heartfelt messages, from friends and strangers alike.  There is no greater appreciation shown than from those who immediately went to Cibo honoring not just her memory, but Margarita’s indelible mark in Filipino cuisine and culture.  


Through gestures simple and thoughts profoundly expressed, we all grieve for Margarita Fores, wishing that she had not left us too soon. 
Written below is a personal message from my family to Margarita’s Amado.


“Only a handful of people know what Margarita Flores did for me and my family during one of the most difficult times of our lives.  She gave us more than comfort — she gave us a place that felt like home, a table where we could sit and feel safe.  Because of her and Amado, we found warmth, love, and the kind of belonging that only comes from true friendship.


Margarita was a master not only in the kitchen but also in life.  Her generosity was boundless — she shared her ideas like she shared her recipes, always with love and intention.  To the world, she was a culinary icon.  To my son, she was simply Tita Margarita — embraced tightly, adored deeply, and treasured in a way words cannot capture.


Amado, there are no words for this loss.  What we hold on to is gratitude, as rich and lasting as all of her dishes, for the way she touched our lives.  Through our friendship with you, her love for Carmela, and her magic that made everything feel a little brighter, a little better.


Thank you for sharing Margarita with us.  Her absence will leave an emptiness at the table, but her spirit will always live on in the hearts she fed and the lives she changed.”


Maraming salamat, Margarita.


You will forever be missed.

(The author is a former Comelec commissioner. He is a pioneer of automated elections being a member of the Commission that successfully modernized Philippine elections in 2010. He remains involved in public service as an election lawyer. Email: [email protected])

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