CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, PAMPANGA - In a move that highlights the powerful intersection of international aviation infrastructure and grassroots local culture, the Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has thrown its full organizational weight behind the promotion of Pampanga's world-renowned culinary economy. CIAC President and CEO Jojit Alcazar was formally presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Chie Basco, Co-Convenor of the dual One Pampanga Culinary Cup (OPCC) and One Pampanga Food and Beverage Expo (OPFBEX). The prestigious plaque was presented in joint coordination with Chef Felix Asuncion (Founder and CEO of Project01 by AFV Inc.) and OPCC Co-Convenor Heinz Pelayo.
Elevating the Culinary Capital Through the Clark Gateway
The high-profile recognition underscores a strategic alignment between Pampanga's identity as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines and CIAC's massive macroeconomic blueprint. By heavily endorsing initiatives that showcase homegrown culinary artisans, nurture young culinary student talents, and strengthen small-scale food entrepreneurship, CIAC is actively cementing the region's status as a global tourism destination. The award recognizes Alcazar's vital institutional contribution to an expo that actively celebrates professional culinary excellence, preserves authentic Kapampangan heritage, fosters cross-cultural culinary exchanges, and builds highly profitable business pipelines across Region 3. These joint promotional efforts perfectly complement the corporation's aggressive long-term vision of transforming the Clark Aviation Capital into a premier global gateway.
Building an Inclusive Economic Ecosystem
By integrating food tourism directly into its commercial strategy, CIAC is building a dynamic, inclusive economic ecosystem that turns arriving international travelers into immediate patrons of local Central Luzon culture, businesses, and hospitality. The ceremonial turnover was witnessed and supported by key members of the CIAC leadership, including Board of Directors members Victor Manuel Jr. and Noel Tulabot, signaling a unified corporate commitment toward driving inclusive regional growth through cultural empowerment. This recognition reflects the growing importance of culinary tourism as a driver of economic development, with Clark International Airport serving as the primary gateway for travelers seeking to experience Pampanga's world-famous culinary offerings. The partnership between CIAC and the organizers of OPCC and OPFBEX demonstrates how aviation infrastructure and local culture can work together to create a vibrant and sustainable tourism economy.
