Iloilo city: This year's National Filipino Food Month celebration kicked off Monday in this highly urbanized city, the only UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Creative City of Gastronomy. The kick-off ceremony was held at the Iloilo Terminal Public Market, one of the newest and most modern market facilities and the city's largest bagsakan of fresh agricultural products.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Raisa Tre±as, in welcoming participants, expressed the city government's pride in collaborating with partners to promote Filipino cuisine, empower local farmers and fisherfolk, and elevate culinary heritage on regional and global stages. Tre±as highlighted the city's deep love for gastronomy, which reflects its history, land, and people, and its role in inspiring innovation while maintaining authenticity.

National Commission for Culture and the Arts chair and executive director Eric Zerrudo emphasized the annual celebration's role in sustaining and deepening appreciation for the distinct character of local cuisines shaped by history, culture, and traditions. He noted the theme 'Connected by Taste: The Filipino Food in the Flavors of ASEAN' encourages viewing Filipino cuisine within a broader regional context, highlighting shared sensibilities with Southeast Asian neighbors.

Zerrudo added that the spirit of connection and shared heritage makes Iloilo City a fitting host for the opening celebration. Ivan Anthony Henares, the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines Secretary-General, remarked on the special nature of the occasion, emphasizing food as a fundamental aspect of identity and a unifying force for Ilonggos, Filipinos, and the global community.

Henares noted that this year's celebration is historic, bringing together representatives from all five UNESCO Creative Cities in the Philippines for exchange and collaboration. The celebration also involves the academe, youth, and entrepreneurs to ensure Ilonggos' gastronomy continues to influence and inspire various societal sectors.

The ceremony featured an exhibit of Ilonggo delicacies and local products, with additional activities scheduled throughout the month, including a symposium on Iloilo gastronomy on April 7, Ilonggo Creative Nanay Cookoff on April 8, Sarap Saya: Tasting, Learning, and Loving Filipino Food on April 10, and Ilonggo Youth Day on April 24.