SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation (SMHCC) reinforces its commitment to championing regional pride and progress by celebrating Iloilo’s rich cultural and culinary legacy through Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo.
As the Philippines’ first UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Iloilo continues to gain national and international momentum. The city takes center stage through two landmark initiatives launched by SM Hotels: the “Beyond the Plate” program and the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor.” These initiatives highlight SM Hotels’ broader vision of driving innovation while strengthening local identity across its properties in the region.
“At SM Hotels, our success grows with the communities we serve,” said SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation Vice President for Quality and Sustainability Ms. Leah Magallanes. “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.”
Kusina de Ilonggo Brings Heritage Recipes to Life
At the heart of this culinary celebration is Ani Restaurant at Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo. Through the “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor,” the restaurant transforms every meal into a cultural journey that honors Iloilo’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Inspired by heirloom recipes and the culinary traditions of distinguished Ilonggo families, the curated menu showcases time honored flavors that reflect generations of culinary knowledge. Each dish tells a story rooted in local culture and tradition, offering guests a deeper appreciation of Iloilo’s unique gastronomic identity.
By presenting these heritage recipes in a contemporary dining experience, the initiative bridges generations while introducing Iloilo’s culinary story to a broader audience of travelers, diners, and food enthusiasts.
Beyond the Plate Supports Sustainable Tourism and Local Talent
Recognized by UNESCO as a best practice, the “Beyond the Plate” program underscores SMHCC’s strong advocacy for sustainable tourism. Developed in collaboration with the Iloilo MICE Center, the initiative focuses on skills development and professional growth for local talent.
The program ensures that communities benefit alongside the region’s expanding tourism industry. As Iloilo continues to attract MICE groups and international delegations, there is a growing demand for knowledgeable media coverage that accurately represents the region’s culinary and cultural heritage.
Through the “Beyond the Plate” program, journalists and vloggers are given the opportunity to enhance their craft through specialized training in food and wine storytelling. The initiative equips media practitioners with the tools and knowledge they need to produce more insightful culinary coverage while remaining competitive in the evolving digital content landscape.
Participants gain practical knowledge in storytelling, sensory appreciation, food photography, and industry standards. The program aims to elevate how Iloilo’s culinary narrative is documented and shared with wider audiences.
Industry Experts Lead the Culinary Storytelling Program
The program was led by a distinguished group of master teachers from the fields of culture, hospitality, culinary arts, and digital storytelling.
Dr. Hazel P. Villa, Associate Professor from Western Visayas, is a respected writer and academic whose work highlights Iloilo’s arts, culture, and gastronomy. Her contributions appear in landmark cultural publications. In 2024, she was named one of the Ten Outstanding Ilonggos for her achievements in journalism, education, and public service.
Leah Magallanes, Vice President for Quality and Sustainability at SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation, shared more than three decades of expertise in food and beverage, culinary operations, and sustainability. A certified working chef with experience in Michelin starred kitchens, she guided participants in understanding flavor, taste profiles, and the language used to describe food.
Rouel Guanzon, General Manager of Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo, is a seasoned hospitality executive and respected educator. A founding professor of Enderun Colleges and Southville International School, he has long shaped the next generation of hospitality professionals. During the session, he shared his expertise in wine appreciation and sensory evaluation, helping participants understand how to thoughtfully experience and describe wine.
Kris Cruz is an award winning mobile phone photographer recognized for his storytelling through smartphone imagery. He received the Best Travel Photo award at the International iPhone Photography Awards and has been featured by global brands such as Apple and Lufthansa. During the program, he demonstrated how content creators can capture compelling food photography and videos using only a mobile phone.
Chef Cidj Jalandoni, Executive Chef and Business Development Chef for Western Visayas at Nestlé Philippines, contributed his extensive culinary experience and industry knowledge. A graduate of the Academy for International Culinary Arts, he has built a career in professional kitchens while supporting culinary innovation across the region. His insights helped participants gain a deeper appreciation of culinary craftsmanship and professional standards.
A Gateway to Iloilo’s Culture, Heritage, and Gastronomy
Strategically located in Mandurriao and seamlessly connected to SM City Iloilo, Park Inn by Radisson Iloilo serves as a gateway to the city’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene.
The hotel continues to play an important role in showcasing Iloilo’s heritage while supporting initiatives that strengthen local tourism, talent development, and cultural storytelling.
Through programs such as “Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor” and “Beyond the Plate,” SM Hotels and Conventions Corporation demonstrates how hospitality can serve as a platform for preserving tradition, empowering communities, and celebrating the rich culinary legacy of Iloilo.
