35 face off at PAN 2017 Regional 2 this Saturday

Thirty-five contestants representing the parishes of Kingston and St Andrew, St Mary, St Ann, Trelawny, St Catherine, St Thomas, and Portland will square off for pan chicken supremacy at PAN 2017 Regional 2 at Folly Oval in Portland this Saturday, September 30.

PAN 2017, hosted by CB Foods, is a culinary extravaganza where pan chefs compete in a live 60-minute cook-off. A winner and runner-up (1st and 2nd places) are chosen from each parish to advance to the grand finals on Sunday, October 29 in Half-Way Tree and vie for the coveted title of 2017 Grand Champion.

Parish winners will each receive $40,000 cash and prizes, while the runners-up will receive $20,000 cash, as well as other prizes.

"This is the second time PAN will be in Portland, and it's symbolic, considering that Portland is the home of jerk. But we have lots in store for our patrons. They can expect amazing food and entertainment for the entire family," explained Kemoi Burke, events and promotions coordinator at CB Foods.

A favourite for any pan chef is Walkerswood, who is once again a PAN partner.

"Walkerswood is pleased to once again partner with the CB family. We value our relationship with the CB Group and especially enjoy the connection to the Pan entrepreneurs, as it allows us to celebrate the men and women who are on the front line as Jamaica's culinary ambassadors, sharing the flavours of Jamaica with locals and tourists alike. Every year this event keeps getting bigger and better and we wish them continued success," shared Sean Garbutt, group marketing director for Associated Manufacturers.

Patrons will enjoy succulent and specially priced pan chicken at only $300 throughout the day, and bar deals courtesy of Red Stripe.

Nupak Foil is also a partner for PAN 2017. "The Nupak brand is a known household name and we are happy to partner with PAN 2017 in order to support the entrepreneurs across Jamaica, while also raising awareness of this affordable and durable product," shares Chesna Haber, general manager, Musson Jamaica.

A high-powered serving of entertainment awaits patrons at PAN 2017, Regional 2. Aside from the popular Monster Milk Kiddies Village, there will be giveaways and various competitions on stage throughout the day. To wind down the day's festivities, patrons will get their fill of musical delight, courtesy of dancehall star Agent Sasco, aka Assassin, gospel artiste Jermaine Edwards and singjay Jahmiel.

Comedian Dufton 'Duffy' Shepherd will guide the day's proceedings.

Partners for PAN 2017 are CB Foods, National Baking Company, Jamaica National, TVJ, Red Stripe, Pepsi, Miracle Ketchup, Monster Milk, Nupak Foil, The Gleaner/Star, Walkerswood, Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), Social Development Commission, JPS, Copperwood Pork, Pure National Ice, Pimora by Salada, Naps Napkins, Pear Tree Press and Main Event Entertainment Group.

The event starts at noon and runs until 8 p.m. Admission is free.