The House of Representatives has approved a bill on its third and final reading that will officially declare Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines. House Bill (HB) No. 10634 received overwhelming support during the session on Tuesday, with 201 lawmakers voting in favor and no opposition or abstentions.
This bill, championed by key Kapampangan legislators, including former President and Pampanga 2nd District Representative Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 3rd District Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr., Pampanga 4th District Representative Anna York Bondoc, and Pampanga 1st District Representative Carmelo Lazatin II, recognizes the province’s significant contributions to the country’s culinary heritage.
Once enacted into law, the Department of Tourism will be tasked with promoting Pampanga as the nation’s Culinary Capital, highlighting its rich history and vibrant food culture. The bill asserts that Pampanga’s deep-rooted culinary traditions are not only evident in its renowned restaurants but also in the kitchens of everyday Kapampangans, where culinary excellence is a shared family trait.
The proponents of the bill believe that this recognition will boost local tourism and provide additional livelihood opportunities for the people of Pampanga. The bill’s approval is a significant step towards solidifying Pampanga’s status as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts across the country.
