Pampanga celebrates its rich heritage as the culinary heartland of the Philippines
Angeles City, Philippines - The inaugural International Conference on Kapampangan Cuisine and Food Tourism (ICKCFT), hosted by Holy Angel University (HAU) in collaboration with the Center for Kapampangan Studies (CKS), showcased the rich flavors and diverse culinary heritage of Kapampangan cuisine. Held on March 21 and 22, 2024, the event brought together esteemed dignitaries, government officials, culinary experts, and food enthusiasts from across the globe to celebrate and explore the culinary treasures of the Kapampangan.
The two-day conference featured insightful discussions, culinary demonstrations, and cultural showcases highlighting the significance of Kapampangan cuisine in shaping the country's culinary landscape and its potential to attract tourists.
The opening ceremonies kicked off with a vibrant cultural extravaganza with Pampanga 4th District Representative Hon. Anna York Bondoc-Sagum, Angeles City Mayor Carmelo G. Lazatin Jr., and Department of Tourism Region 3 Director Dr. Richard Daenos gracing the event.
HAU President Leopoldo Jaime N. Valdes and CKS Director Robert P. Tantingco highlighted the conference's purpose of celebrating Kapampangan cuisine's uniqueness and fostering culinary innovation. Congresswoman Bondoc-Sagum outlined the future steps in strengthening Pampanga’s status as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines.
Guest speakers and culinary experts, including chef and restaurateur Claude Tayag and food writer and historian Mr. Ige Ramos, delved into topics such as the adventurousness of Kapampangan taste buds and food shaming in the culinary capital. The conference also featured numerous parallel and plenary sessions on Pampanga’s culinary history, culture, food, and traditions.
Additionally, the event included symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremonies, an art exhibit, a food fair with exhibitors representing different cities and municipalities of Pampanga, and cooking demo sessions showcasing traditional Kapampangan heirloom recipes.
During the event, the Department of Trade and Industry Region 3 as well as other institutions and agencies received certificates of appreciation as partners in bolstering the culinary industry of the province.
The conference concluded with a closing ceremony featuring the HAU Chorale's rendition of the Kapampangan song "Pusu," symbolizing the pride and unity felt by all participants, organizers, and contributors.
The success of the 1st HAU-ICKCFT underscores the importance of celebrating Kapampangan cuisine's uniqueness and originality, reaffirming its pivotal role in the culinary world and its potential to attract global tourism.
By: Chris Lean Tungol, Business Counselor | Negosyo Center Sta. Ana, Pampanga
