CLARK FREEPORT – Foreign and local delegates at the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers were treated to a range of traditional local culinary delights during their stay at the Quest Hotel and Conference Center, located within this Freeport.
In a statement, the hotel shared that authentic and home-grown dishes were featured on their menu for the international competition’s participating teams.
Some of the local fares that were served include kaldereta, banana cue, tocino, pindang, and sisig.
According to Mabel Lopez-Roman, Executive Assistant Manager at Quest Hotel, delegates have been enjoying some of the dishes served to them especially the ‘sisig’.
“Sisig is a popular dish in the world and it was even featured by Anthony Bourdain. So, we really made it a point that we serve it. Actually, guests were already asking for it at their first day here,” Roman mentioned.
Sisig is a treasured Kapampangan recipe made from parts of pig’s face and belly, and chicken liver seasoned with calamansi, onions, and chili pepper. This authentic local dish was also served to the delegates of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) during their bubble competition here last year.
Other dishes on the menu were also presented with a twist and were given a stylized rendition.
“The banana cue was served with chopped peanuts and sesame seeds on top. It’s very popular with the players, and delegates from Indonesia kept going back for more,” Roman added.
Aside from the local gastronomic experience, FIBA players will also enjoy the various facilities and amenities available at the Quest Hotel. The hotel’s amenities include a fitness center, an expansive pool, a pool table and table tennis area, and other ancillary amenities.
Meanwhile, Clark Development Corporation (CDC) and Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) have assured that stringent health and safety protocols are in place to ensure the safety of all players, participants, and stakeholders in the international competition.
The Philippines, China, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, and Thailand are among the teams competing in the 2021 FIBA Asia Cup Qualifiers. The international games began yesterday, June 16, 2021, and will continue until June 20, 2021.