Who are the pillars of Philippine Cuisine?

It's a bit tricky to define the "pillars" of Philippine cuisine in the way we might for something like Greek cuisine, where you can clearly point to olive oil, feta cheese, and a few key herbs as fundamental building blocks.

Philippine cuisine is incredibly diverse, influenced by various cultures over centuries, from indigenous traditions to Spanish colonization, American influence, and more. However, there are some key elements that contribute to its character:

1. Rice: This is the absolute staple, often appearing in every meal. It's not just a side dish; it's used to accompany dishes, wrap food, and even used as a base for some dishes like "laing."

2. Seafood: The Philippines being an archipelago, seafood is abundant and features prominently in dishes like "kinilaw" (ceviche), "sinigang" (sour soup), and many others.

3. Pork: Along with seafood, pork is another popular protein source. It's used in dishes like "lechon" (roasted pig), "adobo" (braised meat), and "longganisa" (sausage).

4. Coconut: Used in various ways, from milk to oil to grated flesh, coconut is a key ingredient in many dishes, giving them a distinct flavor and richness.

5. Vinegar: A vital ingredient in many dishes, vinegar provides a tangy and sometimes sour note, especially in adobo and sinigang.

6. Soy Sauce: Used for seasoning and flavoring, soy sauce is often combined with vinegar, garlic, and other ingredients to create a savory base for many dishes.

7. Garlic and Onion: These two aromatics are ubiquitous in Philippine cooking, adding a pungent, savory flavor to countless dishes.

8. Chilis: Chili peppers are essential for adding heat and complexity to many dishes, ranging from mild to intensely spicy.

9. Indigenous Flavors: While influenced by other cultures, Philippine cuisine also draws heavily on its own indigenous ingredients and flavors. For example, "laing" (taro leaves cooked in coconut milk) and "sinigang" (sour soup) are rooted in traditional Filipino ingredients and cooking methods.

10. Regional Variations: Each island group in the Philippines has its own unique cuisine, influenced by local ingredients and customs. This creates a diverse tapestry of flavors across the archipelago.

Therefore, while it's challenging to identify specific "pillars," these elements contribute to the rich and diverse tapestry that is Philippine cuisine.