Iloilo City named UNESCO creative city of gastronomy

MANILA, Philippines — Iloilo City has earned the distinction of being the first city in the Philippines to be included in the list of creative cities for gastronomy by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

In a statement, UNESCO said that “new cities were acknowledged for their strong commitment to harnessing culture and creativity as part of their development strategies and displaying innovative practices in human-centered urban planning.”

The city was recognized along with 54 others worldwide by the Creative Cities Network or UCCN, a flagship city program established by UNESCO in 2004.

UNESCO director-general Audrey Azoulay announced Iloilo City’s designation on Oct. 31, coinciding with the observance of World Cities Day.

Iloilo City had thrown its bid to be designated as UCCN’s creative city for gastronomy back in 2021 and announced it is the country’s official candidate in May 2023.

Other creative cities for gastronomy were Battambang in Cambodia, Chaozhou in China, Fribourg in Switzerland, Gangneung in South Korea, Herakleion in Greece and Nkongsamba in Cameroon.

Iloilo City, a significant trading center in Panay, is known for its mouthwatering cuisines and delicacies influenced by diverse cultures.

There’s the ever-famous La Paz batchoy, pancit molo and biscocho. Aside from being known as a gastronomic hotpot, Iloilo City is also famous for its world-class Dinagyang Festival and Paraw Regatta.

Meanwhile, Mayor Jerry Treñas said the recognition marked the city’s commitment to harnessing culture and creativity as part of its development strategies.

“I share this award with the Ilonggos, like me, who love to cook our Ilonggo food. Now, we can be proud to say Ilonggo cuisine is taking the stage in the international gastronomy scene,” he said.

Treñas earlier said that the city has a rich culinary heritage, highlighting the unique flavors that make it a gastronomic haven.

“From traditional favorites to innovative creations, our vibrant food scene reflects our commitment to culinary excellence,” he said.

Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco praised Iloilo City, adding that the tourism department will launch the “Philippine Experience” program in Western Visayas this month.

Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda said Iloilo City’s inclusion in the list “brings the Philippines great pride and honor.” — Ghio Ong, Marc Jayson Cayabyab