The City of Angeles in Pampanga has earned the prestigious title of Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination during the World Culinary Awards Gala Ceremony 2024, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Monday, Oct. 7.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said the award underscores the city's growing prominence in global food tourism, underscoring its rich culinary heritage that makes it a premier destination.
“This recognition of Angeles City as Asia's Best Emerging Culinary City Destination reflects the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication of its local chefs and food artisans,” Frasco said.
DOT Region 3 Director Richard Daenos accepted the award on behalf of Frasco during the ceremony held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
This is the first time Angeles City has received the distinction, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit destination for gastronomic enthusiasts worldwide.
Frasco also lauded the local government unit (LGU) of Angeles City and its stakeholders for their concerted efforts in preserving and promoting the city’s food identity.
“This award is a testament to the collective hard work and passion of the people of Angeles City and the province of Pampanga in safeguarding and celebrating their unique culinary heritage,” she said.
A key milestone in the city’s culinary journey is the ordinance declaring Sisig Babi as an Intangible Heritage, a significant move in preserving Angeles City’s cultural identity. The city’s iconic sisig has since become synonymous with its food scene.
Aside from sisig, Angeles City boasts a dynamic culinary landscape with a range of local favorites such as tokwa’t baboy, street food staples, and bibingka, attracting both domestic and international food lovers.
Angeles City surpassed other well-known culinary destinations across Asia, including Hanoi in Vietnam, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Taipei in Taiwan, and Kyoto in Japan.
The recognition further highlights DOT Region 3’s initiatives, including the Food Talks, Culinary Familiarization Tours, and the First International Conference on Kapampangan Cuisine and Food Tourism.
“The Department of Tourism remains committed to elevating our culinary tourism through sustained 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,” Frasco said, expressing optimism for further showcasing the country’s rich flavors and vibrant culinary culture.
The World Culinary Awards, a sister event of the World Travel Awards, celebrate excellence in the culinary industry by recognizing leading destinations and brands.
Angeles City’s triumph follows the DOT’s ongoing efforts to elevate Philippine gastronomy, such as the First UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Asia and the Pacific in Cebu and the Philippine Eatsperience in Manila.