Pavia scoops Iloilo sorbete capital title

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Iloilo has declared the municipality of Pavia, particularly Barangay Anilao, as the “Sorbete Capital of Iloilo” through Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-356.

The ordinance was approved during the Provincial Board’s 50th regular session on Tuesday, June 30, at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

Authored by Board Member Jo Jan Paul “JP” Peñol, the measure was sponsored by Board Member Nielito “Doc Darling” Tupas and co-sponsored by Vice Gov. Nathalie Ann Debuque and the other members of the 15th Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

The ordinance recognizes Pavia’s role in preserving and promoting Iloilo’s sorbete industry, which traces its roots to the early 20th century in Barangay Anilao.

Local artisans in the barangay developed traditional handcrafted methods of making the frozen delicacy despite limited access to refrigeration.

Peñol thanked his fellow legislators for supporting the measure.

“I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for helping to push this measure until it was approved. My gratitude also goes to Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. for his steadfast commitment to ensuring that our micro, small, and medium enterprises, particularly our sorbete makers, are given enough platforms to showcase their hard work and dedication,” he said.

The ordinance also recognizes the Guadaña family for laying the foundation of several of Iloilo’s well-known sorbete brands, including Inday Glen Ice Cream, Mary Hail Ice Cream, D’Lucky 7 Ice Cream, Federico Ice Cream, Carlutch Ice Cream, and Star of the Sea Ice Cream.

It also cites local entrepreneurs who strengthened the industry through ingredient manufacturing, barquillo production, product innovation, and market expansion across Western Visayas.

The measure acknowledges long-standing community traditions, including the free distribution of sorbete during Flores de Mayo celebrations, the observance of Sorbete Day, and municipal initiatives such as the Baye-Baye Sorbete Challenge and the promotion of the “Sorbete de Pavia” brand.

The ordinance also notes that the sorbete industry has provided livelihood opportunities for generations of Pavianhon families while contributing to Iloilo’s local economy.

Sorbete, often associated with community gatherings and neighborhood vendors, remains one of Iloilo’s traditional frozen treats and a source of pride for Pavia’s local food producers.