Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos commended on Thursday the local government of Iloilo City for earning the Philippines' first title of "Creative City of Gastronomy" of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Creative Cities Network (UCCN).

Abalos recognized the local leaders, led by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas; Rep. Christopher "Toff" De Venecia, chair of the House Committee on Creative Industries; the citizenry; and all their stakeholders for their significant involvement and active efforts leading to the inclusion of the city in the prestigious network.

"This recognition is a homage to Iloilo City's Indigenous Peoples (IPs) and ancestors who passed down their customs, traditions, and ways of life, including the traditional Ilonggo recipes. It is a resounding testament to the richness, ingenuity, and diversity of our culture as Filipinos," Abalos said.

The Creative City of Gastronomy tag, according to Abalos, will surely boost tourism not only in Iloilo City but also in the entire country.

"This win by Iloilo City will create an environment that fosters innovation and creativity as key drivers for a more sustainable and inclusive development," he said.

With this feat, Iloilo City became the third city in the Philippines to be part of the international network after Baguio (2017) for craft and folk art, and Cebu (2019) for design.

This is as Abalos rallies all other cities in the country to replicate the success of Iloilo, Cebu, and Baguio and be recognized worldwide as icons of urban development.

"I strongly believe that there is no shortage of creativity and innovation in this country and that this land is home to a diverse cultural heritage," he pointed out.

"Ito ang mga bagay na nagbibigay kahulugan sa ating pagka-Pilipino. So, we must show these proudly to the world, for they are among the many reasons to love the Philippines".

Iloilo City is one of the 55 cities worldwide to be included in UCCN this year, following their designation by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay.