The House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards honoring Pampanga’s rich culinary heritage by approving House Bill 10634 on its second reading. This legislation, championed by prominent Pampanga representatives including former President and now Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Senior House Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Anna York Bondoc, and Carmelo Lazatin II, seeks to officially declare Pampanga as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines.”
The approval, achieved through voice voting, highlights the importance of recognizing Pampanga’s historical and cultural contributions to the country’s culinary landscape. Romblon Representative Eleandro Jesus Madrona, who chairs the House Committee on Tourism and sponsored the measure, emphasized the bill’s significance. According to Madrona, Pampanga’s culinary traditions are not only steeped in history but have also achieved international acclaim, making the province a deserving recipient of this honor.
Madrona noted that the roots of Kapampangan cuisine date back over a century, yet its influence and appeal have only grown with time. He referenced the New York Times’ recognition of sisig as “arguably the greatest pork dish on earth” and the late celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain’s praise for the dish as a prime example of the province’s culinary prowess. Such accolades have helped to place Pampanga firmly on the global culinary map, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world.
The bill’s passage is expected to have far-reaching effects beyond mere recognition. Madrona pointed out that declaring Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines would not only boost the province’s culinary tourism but also spark a chain reaction leading to sustainable tourism and economic growth nationwide. By formalizing Pampanga’s status, the House of Representatives aims to foster greater appreciation for Filipino culinary arts and stimulate development across related sectors.
As the bill moves closer to becoming law, the people of Pampanga and food lovers across the country await the final approval that will enshrine the province’s culinary legacy in the annals of Philippine history.
Source: Congress.gov.ph
