BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – This southern metropolis strives to preserve its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The Iloilo City Mice Center yesterday announced the launching of the “Iloilo City Festival of Food: A Celebration of Ilonggo Gastronomy Excellence 2024” on April 26 to 30, 2024. It aims at promoting the city’s culinary heritage and supporting local food culture. Megaworld Iloilo and the Iloilo City Convention and Visitors Bureau will be co-presenters.
In a press conference, Salvador D. Sarabia Jr., head of Iloilo City Mice Center, said that Iloilo City sets to “imprint” itself as the culinary capital of the Philippines after it had been chosen as UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
“It’s an honor to the dedication and hard work of our local food industry professionals and local government units in achieving such recognition,” said Sarabia.
He added: “Their passion for culinary arts has put Iloilo on the map as a culinary destination and this festival is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Iloilo City vied for the title in the past two years by implementing several food-related initiatives, including publishing the Flavors of Iloilo cookbook.
The city has been implementing initiatives such as culinary heritage mapping, capacity-building programs for local food entrepreneurs, and establishing food tourism circuits to showcase its rich culinary traditions.
To maintain its UNESCO Creative City status, the city government is also working on enhancing its food-related infrastructure, promoting sustainable food practices, and collaborating with other UNESCO Creative Cities to exchange best practices and experiences in the field of gastronomy.
Sarabia said the festival is among the efforts being undertaken by the city to preserve its cultural heritage and promote its unique culinary identity even on the international stage.
“This is a celebration that honors the culinary excellence of our region and brings together food enthusiasts from near and far,” said Sarabia.
The festival also aims at “tantalizing” everyone’s taste buds and to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Iloilo.
“This first-ever festival is a feast for the senses, showcasing the best of Ilonggo cuisine through a diverse range of culinary experiences, from traditional dishes to innovative creations that highlight the region’s unique flavors and ingredients,” said Sarabia.
He said the festival will likewise serve as a platform to celebrate the victory of winning the prestigious UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy title.
Dr. Tina Sudario, professor at the Iloilo City Community College, said the festival will also gather innovation of Ilonggo cuisines from various municipalities.
The event will also showcase food tastings of mouth-watering delicacies, cooking demonstrations by famed Ilonggo chefs, and symposia which involves famous Ilonggo gastronomy and hands-on workshops on various traditional cooking methods./PN
