HCMC – About 12,000 free bowls of pho (Vietnamese beef or chicken noodle soup) were served to workers and students in HCMC during a two-day community program on March 7–8.
The event, titled “Pho of Love– Pho for Workers 2026,” was organized by Tuoi Tre newspaper in coordination with Saigontourist Group in Bau Bang Commune.
Chefs from several pho brands and culinary teams from Saigontourist Group hotels prepared and distributed the meals. Beneficiaries included workers and residents in Bau Bang and nearby areas such as Long Hoa Commune, Ben Cat Ward, Long Nguyen Ward, Tru Van Tho Commune and An Long Commune.
The program also included pho cooking demonstrations, vocational training consultations and cultural performances for the local community.
Organizers delivered 350 gift packages to workers facing financial hardship in Bau Bang and surrounding areas. Three support packages worth VND5 million each, including cash and gifts, were also presented to families recognized for their contributions to the country.
Nguyen Thi Anh Hoa, chairwoman of Saigontourist Group’s members’ council, said the program aims to support workers while promoting pho as a symbol of Vietnamese cuisine.
The event was the eighth edition of the “Pho of Love” program. Organizers said it also marks the start of activities leading to the Vietnam Pho Festival 2026, scheduled to take place in Australia in the third quarter of this year.
