SM Hotels spotlights Ilonggo culture with UNESCO culinary push

Insider Spotlight

• SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation is promoting Iloilo’s culinary heritage through new cultural and training programs at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo
• The initiatives highlight Iloilo’s status as the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy
• Programs blend culinary storytelling, media training, and heritage cuisine to strengthen tourism and regional identity
• Hospitality leaders, chefs, academics, and digital creators are helping develop local talent and elevate Ilonggo cuisine
  
  

SM Hotels and Conventions Corp. (SMHCC) is deepening its push for cultural tourism by spotlighting Iloilo’s culinary heritage through new programs designed to promote regional identity and strengthen the local tourism ecosystem.

The hospitality arm of SM Prime Holdings is advancing two initiatives at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo: the “Beyond the Plate” program and the culinary showcase “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor.” 

Both initiatives position the hotel as a platform for celebrating Ilonggo heritage while supporting the city’s growing reputation as a gastronomic destination.

Why it matters

Iloilo’s recognition as the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy has drawn increased attention from travelers, food enthusiasts, and global tourism groups. By integrating heritage cuisine and professional development programs into its hotel operations, SM Hotels is aligning hospitality with cultural preservation and sustainable tourism.

“At SM Hotels, our success grows with the communities we serve,” Leah Magallanes, vice president for quality and sustainability of SMHCC, said in a press statement. 

“Through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, we proudly stand as a tourism partner in celebrating heritage, empowering local talent, and opening doors to authentic Filipino experiences,” she added.

The big picture

At the center of the culinary initiative is Ani Restaurant, where heirloom Ilonggo recipes inspired by prominent local families are being reintroduced through curated menus. 

The “Kusina de Ilonggo” concept transforms dining into a cultural storytelling experience, bridging generations while introducing regional flavors to a broader audience.

Meanwhile, the UNESCO-recognized “Beyond the Plate” program expands the initiative beyond the kitchen.

In partnership with the Iloilo MICE Center, the program trains journalists, vloggers, and content creators in food and wine storytelling. The effort aims to equip media practitioners with skills needed to cover gastronomy and tourism more effectively as the region attracts conferences, events, and international visitors.

Who’s involved

The training sessions feature experts across multiple disciplines, including cultural scholar Dr. Hazel P. Villa, hospitality executive Rouel Guanzon, award-winning mobile photographer Kris Cruz, and Nestlé Philippines chef Cidj Jalandoni.

Together, they provide insights on culture, culinary craftsmanship, wine appreciation, and digital storytelling.

Bottom line

Strategically located beside SM City Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo is positioning itself not only as a hospitality hub but also as a gateway to the city’s expanding cultural and gastronomic tourism scene. —Vanessa Hidalgo | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma