President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vetoed the bill that sought to declare Pampanga the “Culinary Capital of the Philippines,” citing concerns over potential negative cultural implications, regional bias, and a loss of diversity.
In his veto message, Marcos emphasized the lack of a historical basis for the designation and the absence of a thorough study to support the title.
He also expressed concern that such a declaration could cause discrimination against other provinces with rich culinary traditions.
The bills, which passed in 2024, were authored by several prominent Kapampangan lawmakers and aimed to promote Pampanga’s cuisine through the Department of Tourism.
Despite the veto, Pampanga had already declared itself the “Culinary Capital” through a local ordinance in March 2024, celebrating its long history of culinary excellence.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 21, 2025
