𝗠𝗔𝗦𝗜𝗣𝗔𝗚 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗺𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗹𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗹 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗝𝗼𝗵𝗻 𝗦𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘄𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘅

At a press conference held on March 9, 2026, Felix’s legal counsel asserted that the libel case is baseless. Felix pointed out inaccuracies in the recipe book Kayumanggi: A Kaleidoscope of Filipino Flavors and Food Traditions, published by the DTI. His critique was part of legitimate academic discourse and public accountability, not libel. This case is therefore a clear assault on freedom of expression.

Sherwin’s work through Lokalpedia has built a valuable archive documenting native, endemic, and endangered Philippine flora and fauna, alongside the country’s rich food heritage. MASIPAG has had the privilege of sharing many spaces and collaborations with Lokalpedia in our shared vision of more democratic and diverse food systems.

Among these engagements, Sherwin has immersed himself with farmers, consumers, and chefs in exchange activities in Tuba, Benguet; volunteered during the Patikim Festival organized by farmers in North Quezon; contributed to the conceptualization of Gulay Pa More; and participated in many other collaborative efforts.

His continued documentation and work affirm that food advocacy is an active and ongoing pursuit. It shows how vigilance, respect, collaboration, and accountability are essential in advancing food systems that serve the public good.

MASIPAG stands firmly with Felix, recognizing him as one of the many advocates safeguarding Philippine heritage. At a time when democratic and civic spaces continue to shrink, defending voices like his is crucial to protecting both cultural identity and the right to dissent.