Iloilo joins international gastronomy events

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

The Ilonggo gastronomy will be showcased at several international events this May and June.

From May 9 to 13, Iloilo City officials will participate in the UNESCO Creative Cities of Gastronomy Annual Conference, hosted by Phuket, Thailand.

Lea Lara, the designated focal person for Iloilo City’s UNESCO Creative Cities Network designation, alongside Leny Ledesma, Executive Assistant for Special Projects to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, will represent the city.

The conference will highlight how local cuisine can contribute to sustainable food practices.

Themed “From ordinary to extraordinary: Unlocking the creative potential of local cuisine for sustainable food practices,” the conference will focus on the importance of sustainable food methods that enhance community welfare, environmental preservation, and global health.

Practices include using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, reducing food waste, and adopting eco-friendly practices.

Having received its “Creative City of Gastronomy” tag in November 2023 — a first for the Philippines — Iloilo City will display its relevant projects and initiatives on the conference’s second day, underscoring its role in shaping the culinary landscape.

Additionally, from June 14 to 22, Iloilo City will participate in the “International Festival of Cities of Gastronomy, Macau.” This event will feature the flavors of different destinations and showcase each city’s unique gastronomic profile, aiming to promote the intersectoral development of “tourism + gastronomy” and enhance the visitor experience.

Renowned Ilonggo Chef Ariel Castañeda Jr. from Richmonde Hotel-Iloilo, along with his Sous Chef, will represent Iloilo’s gastronomy on June 20 and 22.

These engagements mark Iloilo City’s first international participation since its designation as a creative city.