The Culinary Heartland: Celebrating A Blend of Heritage and Flavor

Pampanga, a province in the Philippines, is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable cuisine. While it may be celebrated for its colorful lanterns and lively conversations, Pampanga's culinary scene shines just as brightly, a treasure of heirloom recipes and flavors that entice the taste buds of many.

Recently, from March 21st to 22nd, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Pampanga and Negosyo Center MACCII worked together to showcase the province's culinary expertise at the First International Conference for Kapampangan Cuisine and Food Tourism. Held at the Holy Angel University, this two-day event served as a platform to celebrate and promote Kapampangan culture and gastronomy, welcoming both local and international guests, both in-person and virtually. Holy Angel University, the honored host, extended invitations to VIPs from National and Local Governments, Southeast Asian food Researchers, Heritage Advocates, Culinary Historians, Food writers, Students, and renowned local Chefs from Pampanga.

One of the highlights of the event was the food fair organized by DTI Pampanga through the assistance of Business Counselor (BC), Alfine Bonus of Negosyo Center (NC) MACCII; BC Chris Tungol of NC Sta. Ana; BC John Martin Madla of NC Mexico; BC Clau Meril Blanco of NC Guagua and BC Katherine Morgan Velasquez of NC Angeles. Seventeen (17) municipalities and twenty-nine (29) business owners showcased their finest culinary creations, offering a glimpse into the assorted flavors that define Pampanga's food landscape. From the fermented delicacies like burong asan to the indulgent sweetness of traditional desserts and the comforting warmth of tsokolateng batirol, every food served at the fair was a testament to the province's culinary ingenuity.

The opening ceremony of the Food Fair was attended by honorable guests, including Mr. Leopoldo Jaime Valdes, President of Holy Angel University; Dr. Richard Dainos, 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 Edelyn's Homemade Nuts. They came together to officially inaugurate the event with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing their support for the promotion of Pampanga's culinary heritage.

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.