The Culinary Heartland: Celebrating A Blend of Heritage and Flavor
Renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine, Pampanga boasts itself as the culinary capital of the Philippines. While the province may be celebrated for its colorful lanterns and lively conversations, its culinary scene shines just as brightly, a treasure of heirloom recipes and flavors that entice the taste buds of many.
On March 21 and 22, the Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS) and Holy Angel University (HAU) held the 1st International Conference for Kapampangan Cuisine and Food Tourism. The event served as a platform to celebrate and promote Kapampangan culture and gastronomy, welcoming both local and international guests, both in-person and virtually. HAU, the honored host, extended invitations to VIPs from National and Local Governments, Southeast Asian food researchers, heritage advocates, culinary historians, food writers, students and members of the academe, and renowned chefs from Pampanga.
One of the highlights of the event was the food fair organized by the Department of Trade and Industry Pampanga through the assistance of its Negosyo Centers (NC) in MACCII, Sta. Ana, Mexico, Guagua, and Angeles City. The fair featured 29 MSMEs from 19 municipalities of the province showcasing their finest culinary creations, offering a glimpse into the assorted flavors of the Kapampangan food landscape. From the fermented delicacies like ‘burong asan’ (fermented fish) to the indulgent sweetness of traditional desserts and the comforting warmth of tsokolateng batirol, every food exhibited was a testament to the province’s culinary ingenuity.
The ribbon-cutting opening ceremony of the Food Fair was attended by honorable guests, including Mr. Leopoldo Jaime Valdes, President of Holy Angel University; Dr. Richard Daenos, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism - Region 3; Ms. Maricel Pangilinan Arenas, Independent Director; Division Chief Ma. Cristina Evangelista of DTI Pampanga; Trade Industry Development Specialist Joseph Pineda of DTI Pampanga; and Ms. Edelyn Cañero, owner of the famous Edelyn's Homemade Nuts.
The food fair not only provided a platform for local businesses to showcase their products but also served as a catalyst for promoting Pampanga's food tourism industry. By highlighting the province's unique flavors and culinary traditions, the event aimed to attract visitors from far and wide, inviting them to get on a culinary journey through Pampanga's storied past and vibrant present.
In an ever-evolving culinary landscape, Pampanga's gastronomic legacy stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition, flavor, and community. Welcoming guests from across the world gather to savor the delights of Kapampangan cuisine, they not only indulge their taste buds but also forge lasting connections with the rich tapestry of culture and history that defines this vibrant province.
“The conference is to celebrate Kapampangan cuisine and to proclaim its goodness, uniqueness, and originality,” CKS Director Mr. Robert P. Tantingco said.
By: Alfine B. Bonus | Negosyo Center MACCII, Angeles City, Pampanga
