Here’s the perfect excuse to gather your favorite people, grab some snacks with your preferred NutriAsia dip, and dive into a Netflix binge – I Love Filipino, a captivating documentary that premiered last June 12, 2025, coinciding with the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence.
Produced by MMPI, I Love Filipino is a five-part documentary that celebrates the exceptional personalities, talents, and cultural nuances that make everything Pinoy so endearing. The series shines the spotlight on the vibrant tapestry of Filipino culture and heritage, uncovering fascinating stories like the untold origin of Mang Tomas All-Around Sarsa and the history of the iconic UFC Banana Catsup.
In its fourth episode, titled “Sawsawan,” the documentary delves into the heart of Filipino culinary heritage — our cherished dips and sauces. Host Jiggy Manicad explores the “sawsawan” that elevate Filipino meals, highlighting iconic favorites like Mang Tomas and UFC Banana Catsup.
“Sawsawan” brings the origin story of Mang Tomas to life, drawing from a first-hand account of how Hernan Reyes, came up with the idea for creating a sauce inspired by his mother’s favorite lechon vendor, Aling Pitang’s Lechon in Quiapo. Alongside this is the retelling of the history of the banana catsup by Milette Orosa, niece of Banana Catsup inventor and Filipina Heroine, Maria Ylagan Orosa.
How did the country’s beloved lechon sauce get its name? What prompted the invention of the banana catsup? Check out episode four of I Love Filipino on Netflix and find out for yourself.
About NutriAsia
Nutri-Asia, Inc., is the Philippines leading manufacturer of food products found in every Filipino household. Among its best-known brands are Datu Puti, Silver Swan, UFC, Papa, Mang Tomas, Jufran, Golden Fiesta and Locally.
