Fil-Am competitive eaters battle for ‘lumpia king’ title

The lumpia eating contest winner was rewarded with a $500 cash prize and “ultimate bragging rights as the Lumpia King.” CONTRIBUTED

GRANADA HILLS, Calif. – Members of the Filipino American community in Los Angeles County  joined the annual lumpia eating contest over the weekend at the Granada Hills location of a popular Fil-Am grocery chain.

The event, the highlight of Island Pacific Seafood Market’s National Lumpia Day, drew over 100 registered participants eager to showcase their lumpia-devouring skills.

The contest drew over 100 registered participants eager to showcase their lumpia-devouring skills. CONTRIBUTED

The competition – sponsored by SoCal Filipinos, NutriAsia, Jufran, Magnolia and Ramar Foods – featured a prestigious judging panel, including renowned competitive eater Raina Huang, also known as “Raina is Crazy,” DJ Cherish TheLuv, Broadway co-producer of “Here Lies Love” and community leader Joe Arciaga.

After a fierce battle, Alex De Vera emerged victorious, conquering a mountain of 15 pieces of lumpia in one minute. De Vera was rewarded with a $500 cash prize and “ultimate bragging rights as the Lumpia King,” according to organizers.

The event was streamed live on the SoCal Filipinos Facebook page, allowing enthusiastic fans to witness the competition unfold.

DJ Midi Riperton kept the energy high throughout the day with a pulsating soundtrack, ensuring a fun and lively atmosphere for both contestants and spectators.

“We are thrilled with the turnout and excitement at this year’s Lumpia Eating Contest,” said Giselle Tongi- Walters, Island Pacific’s Communications and Community Partnership director.

“National Lumpia Day is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this iconic Filipino dish and bring our community together. We’d like to thank all the participants, judges, sponsors and supporters who made this event a success.”

Island Pacific Seafood Market remains committed to fostering a vibrant community and celebrating Filipino culture, Tongi-Walters said.

Their annual lumpia eating contest has become a highly anticipated tradition, and with its growing popularity, promises even more excitement in the years to come, she added