USA Cheeses Make Strong Strides in the Philippines as Training Programs Expand

The USA Cheese Guild is ramping up its efforts in the Philippines, providing advanced training and building partnerships to strengthen the local food industry and boost appreciation for American cheeses.

As the Philippines continues to emerge as a key market for U.S. agricultural products, these initiatives aim to meet the growing demand for premium, versatile dairy products.

The Philippines ranks as the ninth-largest global destination for U.S. agricultural exports, with shipments rising 33% from 2013 to 2023. Among these products, U.S. cheeses, from creamy cream cheese to flavorful Pepper Jack, are carving out a significant presence.

Dairy exports have been particularly strong. In 2024, U.S. cheese shipments to the Philippines grew by 24% compared to the previous year, driven by interest from consumers, chefs, and food businesses. Fresh cheeses, especially cream cheese, dominate U.S. exports, while classic American varieties like white cheddar, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack are steadily gaining recognition.

Consumer trends reflect this growth. Research from the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) shows that cheese is consumed by 99% of middle- to high-income urban Filipinos, and 82% of those who have eaten cheese in the past three months enjoy it at least once a week. This rising interest opens exciting opportunities for local food operators to innovate and expand their offerings.

Training Chefs and Food Professionals to Innovate with Cheese

To support this growing market, the USA Cheese Guild launched the USA Cheese Specialist™ Certification Program (CSCP) in 2024. The program targets culinary students, professional chefs, retailers, and distributors, offering comprehensive training in cheese varieties, handling, storage, applications, and pairings through five specialized tracks tailored to each professional group.

“Proper cheese training doesn’t just improve kitchen efficiency, it sparks creativity,” said Chef Muhammad Imran, a USA Cheese Specialist and consultant who leads the sessions. “Our goal is for Filipino chefs to fully understand the versatility of U.S. cheeses and craft unique flavor experiences for diners.”

Graduates leave the program with a deep understanding of American cheeses, their heritage and craftsmanship, and practical skills in merchandising, pairings, and beverage accompaniments. To date, over 200 participants, from culinary students to importers and retailers, have completed the program.

Local industry leaders have embraced the training. Rowena Santiago, Senior Buyer at S&R Membership Shopping, remarked, “U.S. cheeses rival European options in taste and quality. They’re flavorful, versatile, and our customers will enjoy trying more of them.” Karen Evangelista, Merchandising Director at The Marketplace, added, “Cheese enhances flavor and comfort in food. Including more U.S. cheeses in our ready-to-go meals offers our customers an elevated experience.”

Building Long-Term Opportunities for Filipino Businesses

Beyond education, the USA Cheese Guild supports local trade partners through market insights, product application collaborations with chefs, and connections with U.S. cheese suppliers. These initiatives help Filipino retailers and food operators capture growth opportunities while strengthening trade links between the Philippines and the U.S.

Consumers are also tasting U.S. cheeses through restaurant partnerships. Subway® Philippines, for example, featured U.S. Smoked Gouda in its seasonal Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub, following the successful Triple Cheese Steak Sub earlier in the year. These collaborations highlight the variety and quality of American cheeses, introducing more Filipinos to new flavors.

“Our vision is to create a well-informed network of culinary and trade professionals who recognize the potential of U.S. cheeses,” said Dali Ghazalay, Regional Director – Southeast Asia, USDEC. “The Philippines is a key market in Southeast Asia. By investing in training and engagement, we’re laying the foundation for sustainable growth and broader appreciation of American cheeses among Filipino chefs, businesses, and consumers alike.”

For updates on training programs and industry insights, follow the USA Cheese Guild on LinkedIn.

Sources:

USDA-FAS Global Agricultural Trade System and FAS Manila trade interviews

2, 3. USDEC Custom Research, Southeast Asia Consumption Tracker, H1 2025