Filipino Food Month 2026 Launches in Iloilo, Unesco's Gastronomy Hub
The eighth annual Filipino Food Month (FFM) celebration officially kicked off on April 6, 2026, at the Iloilo Terminal Public Market, marking a vibrant start to a month-long tribute to the nation's rich culinary heritage. This year's event, themed "Connected by Taste: Filipino Food in the Flavors of Asean," brings together food enthusiasts, government officials, and cultural advocates to highlight the interconnectedness of Southeast Asian cuisines.
Iloilo City: The Perfect Gastronomic Backdrop
Iloilo City, recognized as the Philippines' first and only Unesco Creative City of Gastronomy, served as the ideal location to inaugurate the festivities. Mayor Raisa Treñas warmly welcomed guests, emphasizing the city's pride in hosting this significant cultural event. The celebration underscores Iloilo's role as a culinary leader, showcasing its unique flavors and traditions to a broader audience.
Key Partners and Collaborative Efforts
The launch event saw the participation of prominent figures, including Eric Zerrudo, chairperson and executive director of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and Dr. Ivan Anthony Henares, secretary general of the Unesco National Commission of the Philippines. Representatives from other Unesco Creative Cities in the Philippines—Baguio City, Cebu City, Quezon, and Dumaguete—also joined, fostering a spirit of national unity and cultural exchange.
The success of Filipino Food Month is made possible through the collaborative efforts of multiple organizations:
- National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA)
- Unesco National Commission of the Philippines
- Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement
- Department of Tourism Western Visayas
- Department of Agriculture Western Visayas
- Iloilo City Government through the Iloilo City MICE Center
This partnership highlights the importance of cross-sector cooperation in promoting Filipino cuisine on both local and international stages.
Celebrating Filipino Cuisine in the Asean Context
With the theme focusing on Asean flavors, this year's Filipino Food Month aims to explore the shared culinary heritage across Southeast Asia. The event encourages Filipinos to appreciate how their food traditions intersect with those of neighboring countries, fostering greater regional understanding and appreciation. Activities throughout the month will include cooking demonstrations, food fairs, and educational sessions designed to engage the public and celebrate the diversity of Filipino gastronomy.
As Filipino Food Month enters its eighth year, it continues to grow in scope and impact, reinforcing the Philippines' position as a vibrant culinary destination. The launch in Iloilo City sets the stage for a month filled with flavor, culture, and community, inviting everyone to savor the tastes that connect the nation to its Asean neighbors.
