The city of Angeles in Pampanga was named Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination at the World Culinary Awards Gala Ceremony 2024.

The award was conferred in a ceremony in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates on Oct. 3, solidifying the city’s status as a rising star in global food tourism.

“This prestigious recognition of Angeles City as Asia’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination underscores the exceptional talent, creativity, and dedication of its local chefs and food artisans,” Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said Saturday.

“The city’s rich culinary heritage, led by its iconic dishes like sisig, continues to captivate food enthusiasts not only in the Philippines but across the world, showcasing the power of Filipino cuisine on the global stage.”

Department of Tourism (DOT) 3 (Central Luzon) Director Richard received the award, which also marks the city’s first-ever accolade in this category.

“This award is a testament to the collective hard work and passion of the people of Angeles City and the province of Pampanga in safeguarding and celebrating their unique culinary heritage,” Frasco said.

She also lauded the city’s efforts to protect its culinary treasures, including passing an ordinance that recognizes Sisig Babi as an Intangible Heritage of Angeles.

Angeles City, known for its iconic sisig, tokwa’t baboy, street food, and bibingka, offers visitors a diverse culinary landscape making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

Angeles City competed against other renowned food destinations in Asia, including Hanoi, Vietnam; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Taipei, Taiwan; and Kyoto, Japan.

At the awards ceremony, Daenos connected with prominent figures in the culinary industry, many of whom were eager to learn more about the state of the Philippines’ food culture.

The World Culinary Awards, a sister event to the World Travel Awards, recognizes and rewards excellence in the culinary industry after a year-long search for the world’s leading culinary brands. (PNA)