CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The Provincial Government of Pampanga, through the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office of Pampanga (ACTOP), officially unveiled the exciting line-up of events for the 3rd Manyaman Festival.
The festival, which has quickly become a signature event for the province, promises to once again showcase Pampanga’s culinary prowess.
During the press presentation, notable figures from both local and regional offices expressed their support and enthusiasm for this year’s festivities. Present were Department of Tourism-Central Luzon director Richard Daenos, 2nd District board member Claire Lim, chairperson for education, culture and arts, 3rd District board member Ananias Canlas Jr., and Pampanga Arts, Culture and Tourism Office chief Michael Castañeda. Together, they shared a glimpse of the meaningful experiences and rich cultural engagements that await festival-goers.
“As you immerse yourselves in the aromas, tastes, and experiences of our Manyaman Festival, we invite everyone to discover the soul of Pampanga—through its food, its people, and its passion,” said Lim.
This year’s celebration brings not only a feast for the senses but also highlights the agricultural roots and creative spirit of the Kapampangan people.
The festival kicks off on April 23 with “Kapampamangan: A Kapampangan Food Exposition” at Rainwater Park, Megaworld Capital Town Pampanga. Visitors can expect a culinary showcase of classic and modern dishes prepared by local chefs and food artisans. Running concurrently from April 23 to 25 is the Agri-Business Trade Fair, which will feature local products, farming innovations, and sustainable practices, also set in Rainwater Park.
On April 25 and 28, the spotlight shifts to Pampanga’s lush farmlands with “Ing Bie Marangle: A Farm Tourism Site Tour and Immersion,” which offers curated visits to Diaspora Farm Resort, Grassroots & Co. Farms, St. Isidore the Farmer, and Ro Valerio Integrated Farm. This immersive experience allows participants to witness farm-to-table practices and the deep agricultural ties that influence Kapampangan cuisine.
April 29 marks a full day of celebration with several major events. At SM City Pampanga Event Center, “Manyaman Pampanga: A Grand Cook-Off” will take place, gathering local cooks and culinary experts in a friendly competition that highlights traditional flavors and innovative dishes. Simultaneously, the “Ortelano at Ing Asikan: A Farmers’ Congress” will be held at Benigno Aquino Hall, providing a vital platform for farmers, agri-entrepreneurs, and local officials to discuss issues and opportunities in the agricultural sector.
Capping off the festival is the launch of “CUISINEMA: Pampanga Short Film Festival,” at SM City Pampanga Event Center. This new initiative blends film and food by showcasing short films inspired by Kapampangan culinary stories, heritage, and everyday life—an innovative cultural expression that brings Pampanga’s gastronomic narratives to the screen.
With its dynamic blend of food expos, farm immersions, trade fairs, cultural showcases, and creative storytelling, the 3rd Manyaman Festival is set to be an unforgettable celebration of everything that makes Pampanga “manyaman,” not just in taste, but in heart and soul.
