CLARK FREEPORT—President Duterte was served Kapampangan cuisine in the first-ever Kapampangan Food Festival held at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Convention Center here last Thursday.
“When I was in Davao, I had my closest friends, the Lisings. And they are Kapampangans. So whenever I get invited to their house, I feel very happy and excited because Kapampangan cuisine is really very delicious,” Duterte said.
He said Pampagueños have more varied menus and recipes compared to other tribes in the country, maybe because of the influences of many races like the Americans and
the Spaniards.
“Unlike those in the Visayas and Davao, which have simpler cuisines, Pampangueños have the best in the Philippines because of the native talent and extreme expertise of Kapampangans when it comes to food,” the President said.
“It will be a travesty of justice if I do not pay my respect to the rich and cultural heritage of the Pampangueños,” he added.
Duterte challenged the Kapampangans to show to the world what they have to offer—a world-class hospitality, sumptuous food and unique heritage.
The President said this is one way of spurring economic growth and fostering unity and solidarity in Pampanga and the rest of Central Luzon.
Nineteen municipalities and two cities from Pampanga showcased their best lutong barrio specialties during the Kapampangan Food Festival.
The grand food festival aims to showcase the province’s native and authentic delicacies, as well as promote Kapampangan culinary heritage. It is part of the weeklong celebration of the 446th Aldo Ning Kapampangan (Pampanga Day), which kicked off on, December 6.
The Kapampangan Food Festival featured culinary offerings from well-acclaimed Kapampangan chefs, including Sau del Rosario, Claude Tayag, Howard Dizon, Lourdes Castro, Judy Uson and Chloe Ann Caugiran.
Susie’s Cuisine, Carreon’s Delicacy, Delyn’s Delicacy, My Lola Nor’s and Taldawa Kambingan were also featured.