SM Hotels Advances Ilonggo Culture and Heritage with UNESCO-Recognized Programs

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 as it takes center stage through two landmark initiatives: the launch of the "Beyond the Plate" program and the "Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor." These efforts reflect SM Hotels' broader vision of driving innovation while championing local identity among its properties across 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."

At the heart of this culinary showcase is Ani Restaurant, where the "Kusina de Ilonggo: Mga Panubli Nga Sabor" transforms every meal into a cultural journey. Inspired by heirloom recipes and the culinary traditions of distinguished Ilonggo families, each curated menu brings time-honored flavors to life, while bridging generations and introducing Iloilo's gastronomic story to a wider audience.

Recognized by UNESCO as a best practice, "Beyond the Plate" underscores SMHCC's advocacy to sustainable tourism. In collaboration with the Iloilo MICE Center, the initiative invests in skills development and professional growth for local talent to ensure that the community flourishes alongside the region's expanding tourism landscape. In particular, through the "Beyond the Plate" program, journalists and vloggers are given the opportunity to elevate their craft through specialized training in food and wine storytelling. The initiative responds to the increasing demand from MICE groups and visiting delegations for more informed culinary coverage, in order to provide media practitioners with the skills they need to remain competitive and relevant in today's dynamic content landscape.

The program was led by a stellar roster of master teachers drawn 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 an 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, brought 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 exceptional 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. In 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 deep culinary expertise and industry experience. A graduate of the Academy for International Culinary Arts, he has built a career in professional kitchens while supporting culinary innovation and development across the region. His insights provided participants with a deeper appreciation of culinary craftsmanship and industry standards.

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, where heritage, hospitality, and innovation converge.