Chefs from the Province of Tarlac emerged victorious in this year’s Hotel and Restaurants Association in Pampanga – HARP (HARP) Cook-Off Challenge, bagging top prizes in multiple categories. 

In the Professional Chef Category, Gilbert Teofilo and Jerald Esteves secured 2nd place, while in the Amateur Category, Maria Arboleda and Alyssah Antonio emerged as champions.

Also in the Professional Chef Category Exotic Sisig Challenge, Teofilo and Esteves showcased their culinary expertise, emerging as champions. The pair wowed the judges with their unique and innovative take on the traditional Kapampangan dish, using exotic ingredients that highlighted the region’s diverse cuisine.

“We are overjoyed and proud to bring home these awards for our province. It is an honor to represent Tarlac and showcase our culinary skills on this platform,” said Teofilo. 

The Cook-off Challenge, which featured participants from various provinces in Central Luzon, highlighted the region’s rich culinary heritage and provided a platform for chefs and cooks to showcase their talents. For Teofilo and Esteves, the competition was an opportunity to challenge themselves and showcase their skills in a highly competitive environment.

With their impressive showing at HARP’s Cook-off Challenge, the Tarlac chefs have cemented their reputation as some of the best in the region, highlighting the province’s growing culinary scene. 

The event was supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, Clark Development Authority, and Department of Tourism – Region 3 Office, and the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga. 

The event also featured a Trade Fair and Food Sampling, Cooking Demo, Culinary Talks with Kapampangan Chefs, Photo Exhibit, and the highly anticipated Culinary Skills Competition. Their victory also serves as an inspiration for other chefs and cooks, showcasing the importance of creativity, innovation, and passion in the culinary world. (Tarlac Tourism)