Pampanga’s rich culinary tradition was in the spotlight once again as the 3rd Manyaman Festival officially kicked off on April 23 with the vibrant Kapampangan Food Exposition at Rainwater Park, Capital Town, Megaworld —a key celebration of Filipino Food Month.
Leading the grand launch was Board Member and Committee Chair on Arts and Culture Atty. Claire Lim, representing Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, with the full support of First Lady Yolly Pineda.
“Congratulations to us, culinary capital or not. Tuloy-tuloy tayo. It’s part of our heritage—dapat ipasa natin lalo na sa mga kabataan,” said Mrs. Pineda, highlighting the importance of preserving and passing on Kapampangan culinary traditions.
The exposition was a flavorful journey across Pampanga’s four districts, each presenting signature dishes that reflect the province’s gastronomic diversity:
- 1st District: Sizzling Pork Sisig from Angeles City, hearty Putong Babi from Mabalacat City, and savory Bulanglang Babi from Magalang.
- 2nd District: Delights like Asadong Dila (Sta. Rita), Galans Chicharon (Guagua), Sabo Bule (Floridablanca), Sale Manuk (Lubao), Gisang Pugang Panas (Porac), and Tortang Alimasag (Sasmuan).
- 3rd District: A showcase of Pindang Damulag with Pacu Salad (San Fernando), Kabigting’s Halo-Halo (Arayat), Baldesadong Dila with Puto Seko (Bacolor), and Adobong Balot (Sta. Ana).
- 4th District: A mix of tradition and creativity with Beef Kare-Kare (San Simon), Birinok (Sto. Tomas), Toyotang Manuk (Minalin), Kubang Itik (Apalit), Cajun Seafood Boil with Garlic Butter Sauce (Masantol), Rellenong Alimango (Macabebe), Lagat Hitu (Candaba), and Bibingkang Nasi (San Luis).
“This exposition is a tribute to the culinary artistry of the Kapampangan people. It’s not just about food—it’s about identity, tradition, and pride,” said Mike Castañeda, head of the Pampanga Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office.
The festival’s opening was further enriched by cultural performances from Miah Tiangco, Grand Winner of ‘The Clash 2019,’ and Arti Sta. Rita, a MOKA awardee for Performing Arts.
Adding depth to the celebration is a 3-day Agri-Business Trade Fair, spotlighting local farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and artisans with a display of homegrown products, culinary innovations, and sustainable food practices.
Bringing together food, culture, and community, the Manyaman Festival continues to be a flavorful tribute to what it means to be proudly Kapampangan.
