The local government, in partnership with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and SM Markets, formally opened the 2026 Filipino Food Month (FFM) celebration on Monday, April 6, at the Iloilo Terminal Market.
This year’s theme, “Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN,” highlights the country’s culinary heritage while linking it to regional flavors.
The launch was led by Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas, joined by officials from the NCCA, Department of Agriculture (DA), Department of Tourism (DOT), and other partner agencies.
Treñas underscored Iloilo’s distinction as the Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
“As the first and only UNESCO Creative Cities Network Creative City of Gastronomy in the Philippines, ginapasanyog naton ang (we are promoting) Filipino cuisine while strengthening support for our farmers and fisherfolk kag (and) elevating our culinary heritage on the local, regional, and global stage,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to partner agencies for their support and vowed to continue championing Filipino and Ilonggo flavors as a showcase of the country’s culinary excellence worldwide.