Ribbon-cutting of Coca-Cola PH’s Foodmarks campaign at Festive Walk Iloilo on Friday, August 9. Photo by Ched Rick Gatchalian, ABS-CBN News

ILOILO -- In keeping with its designation as UNESCO’s Creative City of Gastronomy in the Philippines, Iloilo City has been chosen as the second stop for Coca-Cola’s Foodmarks, the brand’s global campaign that celebrates iconic “food landmarks.”

Executive Assistant Jay Treñas representing Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, Coca-Cola Philippines’ senior director for franchise operations Pablo Noriega, local officials, and other brand executives led the official campaign launch through a ceremonial ribbon cutting at Festive Walk Iloilo last August 9.

"Iloilo’s culinary heritage is a living tapestry,” Medina emphasized while raising a glass of the softdrink. "It’s about families bonding over La Paz batchoy, friends toasting over sizzling platters of kansi, and communities coming together to celebrate the harvest with hearty feasts. And an ice-cold Coca-Cola drink? Well, it's the perfect note to complete an unforgettable gastronomic adventure."

Meanwhile, Treñas said they are grateful for the recognition that helps establish Iloilo as an innovative culinary hub in the country.

"This iconic dining experience is not only a celebration of our culinary diversity but also supports and promotes our local food industry as we nurture a spirit of collaboration and creativity," he mentioned.

Content creators Nana Silayro and Bebu, Joj Pangan, and Kimpoy Feliciano attended the Foodmarks launch in Iloilo.

Coca-Cola Philippines' buses for Iloilo Foodmarks campaign.

Social media personalities Nana Silayro and Bebu, Joj Pangan, and Kimpoy Feliciano also graced the event to lead the attendees in visiting various restaurants through Coca-Cola’s buses.

CULINARY TREASURE MAP

Medina stated that Iloilo City, as a foodmark, unfolds as if it’s a culinary treasure map.

Coca-Cola Foodmarks standee in Iloilo International Airport showcasing iconic local restaurants.

Teling's, a coffee and bakery shop in Iloilo recognized by Coca-Cola Foodmarks

Over 19 local restaurants in the area were recognized as certified food landmarks that represent Iloilo City’s best dishes. Some of these were Balay Bisaya Batchoy, Jeara’s Tinu-Om, Kap Ising Pancit Molo, and Mat-Mat Talabahan.

Guests can receive several merchandises from Coca-Cola once they acquire a number of necessary stamps from stopping by the said restaurants.

ULTIMATE FESTIVAL

After the epic food crawl on Festive Walk’s K-Town last Friday and Saturday, another food fest is taking place on the same venue on August 16 to 17.

Foodmarks event at Festive Walk's K-Town.

Coca-Cola' Foodmarks logo projected at an exterior of a building in Iloilo.

Aside from numerous stalls offering Ilonggo’s best cuisines, there will also be performers gracing the event.

NOTABLE EPICENTERS

More than mere places, Coca-Cola emphasized that these foodmarks are “epicenters” of their respective countries with vibrant heritage and exceptional dining offerings.

In the Philippines, the campaign started in Binondo, Manila, highlighting the blend of traditional Chinese cuisines with Filipino touch. After its stop in Iloilo City, the beverage brand will be bringing the celebration to Boracay and Ilocos Sur.

When asked if there are more locations that will participate, Coca-Cola said they are open for partnerships and initiatives from interested local government units (LGUs).