Wildlife conservation group pays tribute to chef Margarita Fores

Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!

Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.

Visit Suniway.ph to learn

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) - Philippines, which works on the conservation of wildlife and endagered species, remember the late chef Margarita Fores not only as a “culinary icon” but also a “fierce advocate for sustainability.”

Margarita Fores, the brilliant restaurateur and chef founded restaurants including Cibo, Lusso, and Grace Park has died at the age of 65.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Chef Margarita “Gaita” Forés. More than a culinary icon, she was a fierce advocate for sustainability, always championing local farmers, fisherfolk, and the future of our food,” WWF-Philippines said Wednesday in a Facebook post.

The organization said Fores contributed to promoting Marine Stewardship Council-certified Philippine yellowfin tuna in the Austrian market, emphasizing the significance of sustainable practices and responsible sourcing in the seafood sector.

“By championing sustainably caught tuna, she helped open more opportunities for local tuna handline fishers, ensuring better livelihoods while protecting marine ecosystems,” WWF-Philippines said.

“She truly was an amazing human being, and all of us at WWF-Philippines are grateful for her passion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to sustainability,” the group added.

On Tuesday, Flores' son confirmed her passing on social media.

Also a restaurateur, Flores opened Cibo in 1997, and later Cafe Bola, Pepato, Lusso, Grace Park, as well as a catering business Cibo di Marghi.

In 2016, she was named Asia's Best Female Chef. — BAP, GMA Integrated News