Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, one will find the country’s city of love – Iloilo. It offers its visitors not only a trip through the hustle and bustle of its streets but also a journey through time itself. As the host for the 7th Annual TBI Summit, let us take a closer look at the city which offers a vibrant tapestry where the past, the present, and the future, converge.
First Stop: Stepping into the Past through Iloilo’s Historical Mansions and Museums
Imagine walking along the cobblestone streets of Iloilo, where each step takes you back in time. The city’s dedication to preserving its historical mansions and buildings is a testament to the deep respect Ilonggos have for their heritage.
Nelly’s Garden: This mansion, a jewel in Jaro, invites visitors to marvel at its splendid architecture and immerse in the stories of the illustrious Lopez clan.
Molo Mansion: Facing the Molo Plaza stands the Molo Mansion, an emblem of Iloilo’s rich history. Erected in the 1920s, this Neoclassical masterpiece was once home to the Yusay-Consing family. It has since transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, housing Ilonggo art, crafts, and delectable delicacies
Lizares Mansion: The Lizares Mansion, an architectural jewel built in 1937 by sugar baron Don Emiliano Lizares for his family, is now part of the Angelicum School Iloilo. As Christmas approaches, the mansion transforms, adorned with thousands of lights, creating a spectacle that blends history with festive joy.
Camiña Balay nga Bato: Positioned beside the Iloilo River, this house is not just an architectural marvel but also a culinary destination, offering traditional Ilonggo cuisine like pancit molo. Its structure, inspired by the Bahay Kubo, has withstood the test of time, inviting visitors to relish in its historical and gastronomical offerings
Museums: The Keepers of Iloilo’s Soul
No journey through Iloilo’s past would be complete without a visit to its museums. Museo Iloilo, the first government-sponsored museum outside Metro Manila, showcases the province’s cultural history, from prehistory to contemporary times. The Philippine Economic History Museum, housed in a century-old complex, highlights Iloilo’s commercial and trade legacy from the 18th to the early 20th century.
Through these storied mansions and museums, Iloilo offers a profound experience, where each step is a journey through time, celebrating a heritage that is both grand and intimate.These museums, along with the city’s mansions, are custodians of Iloilo’s soul, narrating tales of its rich and varied past.
Second Stop: Culinary Delights – Iloilo’s UNESCO-Recognized Gastronomy
As the first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in the Philippines, Iloilo’s culinary scene is a paradise for food lovers. Iloilo is a culinary gem in the Philippines, offering an array of mouth-watering dishes that are a testament to its rich cultural heritage and culinary ingenuity.
The city’s streets are lined with eateries and restaurants serving traditional Ilonggo dishes, an integral part of its charm and identity.Here are some of the must-try foods in Iloilo:
La Paz Batchoy: This noodle soup is a symbol of Iloilo’s culinary identity. Originating from the La Paz district, it features a savory broth made from pork offal, crushed pork cracklings, chicken stock, beef loin, and round noodles. Garnished with green onions and garlic, it’s a bowl of comfort that encapsulates the local flavor.
Pancit Molo: A Filipino soup dumpling that hails from the Molo district. It consists of minced pork, shrimp, and chicken wrapped in thin wonton wrappers, submerged in a rich, garlicky chicken broth. This soup is a delightful blend of Chinese and Filipino culinary traditions.
Chicken Inasal: A barbecue delight unlike any other, Chicken Inasal is marinated in a mixture of calamansi, pepper, coconut vinegar, and annatto, then grilled over hot coals. Its unique flavor profile and succulent texture make it a standout dish.
KBL (Kadyos, Baboy, Langka): A classic Ilonggo stew that combines kadyos (pigeon peas), baboy (pork), and langka (jackfruit). The tartness of the kadyos, the richness of the pork, and the subtle sweetness of the langka create a harmonious blend of flavors.
These dishes are not just food; they are stories of Iloilo’s history, its people, and their relationship with the land and sea. Each bite offers a glimpse into the soul of Iloilo, making it a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast.
Final Stop: Into the Future – The Future of Business and Startups in Iloilo
As we approach the TBI Summit, Iloilo stands out as a fertile ground for startups and businesses. The city’s rapid development, exemplified by projects like the Iloilo Business Park, creates a dynamic environment for innovation and growth.
Tech Hubs and Innovation Centers: Iloilo is increasingly becoming a hotspot for tech startups, with the local government supporting innovation through various initiatives.
Collaboration Opportunities: The convergence of culture, history, and technology in Iloilo provides unique collaboration opportunities for businesses, especially in sectors like food tech, tourism, and cultural preservation.
Sustainable Development: With a focus on sustainable urban development, Iloilo is an ideal location for startups and businesses committed to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
Iloilo is not just a city but a living story, inviting everyone to be part of its journey. For participants of the TBI Summit, it offers a glimpse into the potential of blending cultural heritage with modern innovation, where the past, present, and future coalesce to create a thriving business landscape.
Sources:
https://yoorekka.com/magazine/boracay-panay-island/2019/10/21/old-mansions-iloilo-s-famous-houses
https://www.spot.ph/eatdrink/the-latest-eat-drink/89463/best-iloilo-food-you-should-try-a4543-20220605-lfrm
https://shemaegomez.com/art-galleries-in-iloilo-city/
https://chasingafterparadise.com/out-and-about-around-iloilo/
