ASEAN Tourism Forum Delegates Immerse in Kapampangan Culture During Post-Event Pampanga Tour
Following the successful conclusion of the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2026 in Cebu, delegates embarked on a cultural immersion tour to Pampanga on Saturday, January 31. This post-forum excursion aimed to showcase the rich heritage and culinary traditions of the Kapampangan region, highlighting the Philippines' diverse tourism offerings under the national brand "Love the Philippines."
Arrival and Culinary Welcome at Clark International Airport
The delegates arrived via Clark International Airport, where they were immediately greeted with a hands-on culinary experience at Chef Cherry Tan's Apag Marangle in Guagua. Here, participants engaged in preparing authentic Kapampangan specialties, including the iconic "sisig" and the traditional fermented dish "buro," made from rice and shrimp. This interactive session provided a deep dive into local food culture, emphasizing the region's reputation as the culinary capital of the Philippines.
Cultural Exploration at Museo de Angeles
After the culinary workshop, the group proceeded to Museo de Angeles in Angeles City. They were warmly welcomed by Deputy Tourism Officer John Montances and museum guide Lucio Sison. Sison led an informative cultural tour, sharing insights into the history of Angeles City and Kapampangan traditions. Key highlights included the origins of the city's name and local customs such as "Lubenas," a traditional practice that reflects the area's vibrant cultural tapestry.
Interactive Activities and Traditional Delicacies
During their visit, delegates had the opportunity to try their hand at preparing "tsokolateng batirol," a traditional Filipino hot chocolate drink known for its rich flavor. They also sampled a vegetarian version of "paradadas," a unique dish crafted from pandesal bread topped with sweet potato, garlic, onion, tomato, and pepper, then dipped in beaten egg. These activities offered a sensory exploration of Kapampangan gastronomy, blending taste with cultural education.
Personalized Souvenirs and Conclusion of the Tour
The tour concluded with a special touch as Lucio Sison created personalized calligraphy in Kulitan, the ancient Kapampangan script, as souvenirs for the delegates. This gesture not only provided a memorable keepsake but also underscored the preservation and promotion of indigenous writing systems in the Philippines.
Background on the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2026
The ATF 2026 was held in Cebu from January 28 to 30, bringing together senior officials, ASEAN tourism representatives, TRAVEX exhibitors, international buyers, and media. Under the theme "Navigating Our Tourism Future, Together," the forum focused on strengthening regional cooperation and building a more resilient tourism industry. The Department of Tourism, led by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, facilitated the event, aligning with the country's tourism branding efforts to attract global visitors.
This post-forum tour to Pampanga exemplifies the Philippines' commitment to showcasing its cultural diversity and enhancing tourism partnerships within ASEAN, fostering a collaborative approach to sustainable tourism development.
