It is with profound disappointment that we acknowledge President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.‘s veto of the bill declaring Pampanga as the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines.” This decision is particularly disheartening given Pampanga’s rich culinary heritage, renowned both nationally and internationally.
Pampanga’s gastronomic contributions are unparalleled. Dishes such as sisig, tibok-tibok, turrones de casoy, San Nicolas cookies, tocino, pindang damulag, patcu, buro, adobong matua, asadong malangi, and suklating batirul have transcended regional boundaries, captivating the palates of Filipinos and foreigners alike. The late Anthony Bourdain once acclaimed sisig as “arguably the greatest pork dish on earth,” a testament to the province’s culinary prowess.
The legislative journey to recognize Pampanga’s culinary significance has been steadfast. The House of Representatives approved House Bill No. 10634, aiming to officially designate Pampanga with this esteemed title. Subsequently, the Senate passed Senate Bill No. 2797, further solidifying the province’s rightful place in the nation’s culinary landscape.
Despite these legislative endorsements, the President’s veto has left many in the culinary and cultural communities seeking clarity. As of now, no official explanation has been provided for this unexpected decision. This lack of transparency not only undermines the efforts of those who championed the bill but also overlooks the sentiments of countless Filipinos who hold Pampanga’s culinary traditions in high regard.
We earnestly urge the Office of the President to elucidate the rationale behind this veto. Such an explanation would not only honor the democratic process but also provide solace to those who feel aggrieved by this outcome. Recognizing Pampanga’s culinary heritage is not merely a regional accolade but a celebration of our nation’s rich and diverse cultural tapestry.