10/04/2026
If you love fish, one thing you definitely shouldnât miss when visiting the Philippines is our national fishâbangus (milkfish). You can have it fried, grilled, or in soup, but pro tip: go for boneless because it naturally has a lot of tiny bones. When itâs cooked right, itâs not fishy at allâjust soft, meaty, and literally melts in your mouth. Best paired with garlic rice and atsara (pickled papaya), especially if itâs fried or grilled. And if youâre exploring seafood in places like Cebu, donât stop at bangusâhere are other local favorites you should try:
đ Tanigue (Spanish mackerel) â meaty, steak-like, perfect for grilling or kinilaw (Filipino ceviche).
đ Yellowfin tuna â amazing raw as kinilaw or grilled belly (inihaw)ârich, fatty, and super satisfying.
đ Danggit (dried rabbitfish) â a Cebu breakfast classic, crispy, salty, and best with garlic rice and egg. Trust meâFilipino seafood hits differently when itâs fresh.