TACLOBAN CITY – Jill’s Special Lechon emerged as the grand champion of the 2025 Ormoc Lechon Kumbira, besting 11 other entries in the annual roast pig competition held at the city plaza.
The winning lechon took home the P100,000 grand prize, judged based on crispiness, taste, and overall appearance—the key qualities of a standout lechon.
‘Kumbira,’ a Visayan term for a feast or communal boodle fight, continues to be a major crowd-drawing event in Ormoc’s city fiesta celebration held every June 28 and 29.
Taking second place was Aslanan ni Songahid, winning P90,000, followed by Romo’s Lechon in third place with P80,000. Non-winning entries still received P60,000 each as consolation prizes.
Aside from judges and special guests, more than 700 residents also lined up to get a taste of the competing lechon entries during the public feast.
Now in its 8th year, the Ormoc Lechon Kumbira has become a signature event that celebrates local culinary excellence and strengthens the city’s branding as a food and culture destination.
Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez described the event as an important showcase of Ormoc’s vibrant culture and local cuisine, helping attract both tourists and food enthusiasts to the city.
The city government hopes the event will continue to boost Ormoc’s tourism industry and position it as a culinary hotspot in Eastern Visayas.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
