The spirit of fiesta is finding its way into the kitchen as Mabalacat City celebrates its festival with the first-ever MasterChef Cook-Off, spearheaded by Mayor Geld Aquino at the Tabnuan Cultural Center.
The culinary showdown is drawing local chefs and passionate home cooks into a lively celebration of taste, culture, and creativity. Designed around the theme of fiesta food, the contest pushes participants to rely on instinct and imagination. Through an on-the-spot draw of main ingredients, chefs are challenged to conceptualize a dish in real time, then handpick the rest of their components from ingredients available at Tabnuan, transforming the venue into a bustling stage of flavors and friendly competition.
“Mag enjoy po tayo ng pagkaing mula sa puso,” Aquino said.
Each cooking station becomes a tribute to Kapampangan culinary pride. Traditional fiesta staples are being reimagined with modern twists, reflecting both heritage and innovation. Spectators watch as dishes come together under pressure, each plate telling a story of celebration, family gatherings, and the shared joy that defines every Filipino feast.
To honor the chefs’ skill and artistry, winners will receive cash prizes of ₱20,000 for first place, ₱15,000 for second, and ₱10,000 for third. Beyond the prizes, the cook-off is creating a space where community and cuisine meet, reminding everyone that festivals are not only seen and heard, but also tasted.
Expressing their support, Board Members Cherry Manalo and Christian Halili together with the Sangguniang Panlungsod graced the festive competition.
