ANGELES CITY, PAMPANGA - The city is gearing up to welcome cruise passengers arriving via the Costa Serena ship in Subic Bay this October, with a successful site validation held on August 25, 2026, to finalize an exciting lineup of heritage and culinary experiences. The validation, conducted in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region III (DOT-III), TravelPeople Ltd. Inc. (shore excursion operator), and Ties That Travel, is part of a broader push to position Central Luzon as a top cruise tourism destination, showcasing the region's rich cultural and culinary offerings to international visitors.
What Cruise Visitors Can Expect in Angeles City
The proposed tourism experiences are designed to give visitors a taste of authentic Kapampangan culture. The Heritage Tour will explore the historic district, featuring significant cultural landmarks like the Holy Rosary Parish Church, an Important Cultural Property recognized by the National Museum for its aesthetic and historical value, and Museo ning Ángeles, where guests can explore local history through curated exhibits and artifacts. The Culinary Showcase will highlight the iconic Sizzling Sisig, featuring live cooking demonstrations that offer an interactive, community-centered experience. Similar programs, such as the "Kuwento Ni Lola" culinary workshop, have already shown how the city successfully uses food to strengthen cultural pride and heritage appreciation.
A Strategic Move for Central Luzon's Cruise Tourism
The Costa Serena is scheduled to call at Subic Bay on October 25, 2026, as part of its world cruise itinerary. TravelPeople Ltd. Inc., the shore excursion operator, has over three decades of experience in organizing tours and is the preferred sales agent of Costa Cruises in the Philippines, ensuring a high-quality experience for passengers. DOT-III has been actively showcasing Central Luzon as a top cruise destination, participating in international events like Seatrade Cruise Global to attract more cruise lines to the region. This initiative with Angeles City is expected to boost local tourism, showcase Kapampangan heritage, and drive economic growth for local businesses.
