By Brian Campued
Love the flavors! Love the Philippines!
The rich culinary heritage of Angeles City in Pampanga shone on the global stage as the city was named Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination at the World Culinary Awards Gala Ceremony 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates last Oct. 3.
The award marked the city’s first-ever accolade in the said category, besting other renowned food destinations in Asia, including Hanoi, Vietnam; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Taipei, Taiwan; and Kyoto, Japan.
Known for its iconic sisig, tokwa’t baboy, bibingka, among other dishes, Angeles City was lauded by Department of Tourism (DOT) Sec. Christina Frasco for its efforts to protect and promote its culinary legacy, including an ordinance that recognizes “Sisig Babi” as an intangible heritage of the city.
Frasco said the recognition underscores “the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication” of the city’s local chefs and food artisans.
“The city’s rich culinary heritage, led by its iconic dishes like sisig, continues to captivate food enthusiasts not only in the Philippines but across the world, showcasing the power of Filipino cuisine on the global stage,” the Tourism chief said, as quoted in a DOT news release Saturday.
“This award is a testament to the collective hardwork and passion of the people of Angeles City and the province of Pampanga in safeguarding and celebrating their unique culinary heritage,” she added.
Frasco reiterated her agency’s commitment to elevating Philippine culinary tourism by implementing robust food tourism initiatives and sustaining efforts in promoting food heritage, cultural exchange, and innovation.
“Angeles City’s accolade is a testament to how food can be a driving force for tourism, and we look forward to continuing our work in highlighting the diverse flavors and rich food culture that define our country,” she said.
Receiving the award on behalf of the Tourism Secretary was DOT – Region 3 Regional Director Richard Daenos, who also connected with prominent figures in the culinary industry to share the state of the country’s food culture.
The World Culinary Awards, a sister event to the World Travel Awards, recognizes and rewards excellence in the culinary industry after a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands.