with Claire and Maricar | 2018

A Journey Back in Time | Netong’s Original  La Paz Batchoy

In 2018, I embarked on a memorable culinary adventure to Iloilo with my dear friends Claire Algarme and Maricar Dabao. Our trip took us to the quaint streets of La Paz, where we first tasted the renowned  Netong’s Original  La Paz Batchoy in the historic La Paz Public Market. The experience left a lasting impression on us, prompting us to revisit this iconic eatery in 2024, this time accompanied by Lei Lani Dusaban and Geff Sagala.

2018

The Anticipation of Nostalgia | Netong’s Original  La Paz Batchoy

As we approached the La Paz Public Market, memories of our previous visit flooded back. However, I was taken aback to find that the market, once bustling with activity, was still under renovation. Despite the availability of other Batchoy establishments with more modern amenities, we were determined to relive the charm of the original place where Batchoy gained its fame.

2024

The Discovery

Upon locating Netong’s in a temporary space, we were surprised to find an air-conditioned eatery—a stark contrast to the market’s usual ambiance. The presence of Tagalog-speaking tourists indicated that Netong’s had not lost its appeal to visitors seeking authentic local cuisine.

A Taste of Disappointment | Netong’s Original La Paz Batchoy

As we carefully examined the menu, one thing became apparent: there had been a slight increase in prices since our last visit in 2018. The “Special” Batchoy, which used to be a steal at 80 pesos, now costs 90 pesos. The “Super” has gone up to 110 pesos, while the “Mega” will set you back 130 pesos. Adding an egg, once a modest 10 pesos, now costs an additional 20 pesos. While these price hikes were expected given the economic climate, what caught us off guard was the noticeable reduction in portion size when our orders arrived.

However, the true disappointment came when we took our first sips of the broth. The once rich, flavorful liquid that had warmed our hearts on previous visits was now lacking in depth and complexity. It was a shadow of its former self, leaving us yearning for the Batchoy we had come to love. In an attempt to salvage the dish, I found myself reaching for the soy sauce and pepper, a practice I had never resorted to before. The combination of the diminished taste and portion size left us feeling unsatisfied and longing for the Batchoy’s former glory.

Yours truly, Geff Sagala and Lei Lani Dusaban

A Call for Improvement

While I empathize with the challenges Netong’s Original Special La Paz Batchoy may face due to increasing ingredient costs, I firmly believe that compromising on quality is not the solution. As a longstanding culinary landmark, Netong’s must prioritize maintaining the high standards that have earned them their stellar reputation.

It must reevaluate its food offerings to ensure that it continues to deliver the exceptional quality that customers expect. By revisiting their recipes, sourcing the best ingredients, and focusing on consistency, Netong’s can regain its former glory and once again serve the dish that has made it a beloved establishment.

I am hopeful that in the future, Netong’s will rise to the occasion and reclaim its status as a premier destination for authentic La Paz Batchoy. With a dedication to excellence and a commitment to quality, I am confident that Netong’s can once again delight customers and maintain its standing as a culinary gem in La Paz.

Netong’s Original Special La Paz Batchoy

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