NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Third Regular Session
24 AUG 28 ?6 '05
SENATE
Introduced by Senator Loren B. Legarda
AN ACT
DECLARING THE PROVINCE OF PAMPANGA AS THE "CULINARY CAPITAL" 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
EXPLANATORY NOTE
Culinary tradition is an essential part of the Philippines' cultural heritage. Food 
serves not only as a unifying element among Filipinos but also as a significant 
component of our nation's identity and economic landscape. From the sourcing and 
distributing of ingredients to the dynamic food industry, the culinary sector plays a 
significant role in the country's economy and cultural narrative.
Pampanga, located in the Central Luzon region, is a prominent culinary 
destination known for its exceptional and dynamic food culture. The province is known 
for culinary excellence, with iconic dishes such as sisig, tocino, kare-kare, morcon, 
kaldereta, buro, and tibok-tibok at the heart of its gastronomic identity. Their culinary 
story began with the Spanish colonial rule, where local cooks adapted and enriched 
traditional recipes. From here, they created unique and beloved cuisines.
Kapampangan chefs prepared meals for significant historical events, including 
the Malolos Congress in 1898 and the 30th Southeast Asian Games in 2019. 
Pampanga's long-standing role in shaping Filipino cuisine is not just highlighted in the 
historical events. The passion for food in Pampanga exists from professional kitchens 
to every household where cooking is a cherished aspect of daily life.


Designating Pampanga as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines would enhance 
its role as a gastronomic hub, benefiting both the local and national economy. Such 
recognition would support the livelihood of locals, and attract food enthusiasts and 
tourists, contributing to the province and the country's economic growth. This 
designation would also set a benchmark for Filipino cuisine.
Given the aforementioned above, the approval of this bill is earnestly sought.
LOREN LEGARDA


NINETEENTH CONGRESS OF THE 
)
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES 
)
Third Regular Session 
)
lm^V of V
24 AU5 28 ? 6 -05
SENATE
s. No. 2 a ms
Introduced by Senator Loren B. Legarda
AN ACT
DECLARING THE PROVINCE OF PAMPANGA AS THE "CULINARY CAPITAL" 
OF THE PHILIPPINES
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled:
1 
SECTION 1. The Province of Pampanga is hereby declared as the "Culinary
2 
Capital of the Philippines" in recognition of its contribution to the rich culinary history
3 
of the country.
4 
Sec. 2. The Department of Tourism (DOT) shall feature and promote the
5 
Province of Pampanga as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines" in all its regional and
6 
national promotion programs, campaigns, and materials. The DOT shall also consult
7 
with local stakeholders in the development of its programs.
8 
Sec. 3. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), in
9 
collaboration with the DOT, shall develop and implement programs to further celebrate
10 
and preserve Pampanga's culinary traditions.
11 
Sec. 4. All laws, rules, regulations, presidential decrees, and other issuances
12 
inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Act are hereby deemed repealed or
13 
amended accordingly.


1 
Sec. 5. This Act shall take effect after fifteen (15) days following the completion
2 
of its publication either in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation
3 
in the Philippines.
Approved,