ILOILO — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan unanimously approved on third and final reading Provincial Ordinance No. 2026-356 declaring the Municipality of Pavia, particularly Barangay Anilao, as the “Sorbete Capital of Iloilo,” recognizing the town’s historic role in preserving and expanding the province’s iconic traditional ice cream industry while honoring generations of local sorbeteros who transformed a simple frozen delight into one of Iloilo’s enduring cultural symbols.
According to ordinance author Ex-Officio SP member Jo Jan Paul Peñol, who also serves as Sangguniang Bayan member of Pavia, the measure recognizes Pavia’s contribution to preserving, developing and promoting Iloilo’s rich culinary heritage through its century-old sorbete industry.
The ordinance also pays tribute to generations of Pavianhon artisans whose craftsmanship elevated the traditional Filipino ice cream into a cultural icon deeply embedded in Iloilo’s identity.
“This honors the dedication of our sorbeteros who keep this tradition alive. It ensures that the legacy of Ilonggo sorbete continues to be recognized, promoted, and enjoyed by future generations,” Peñol added.
Pavia’s sorbete industry started in the early 20th century in Barangay Anilao, where pioneering families developed innovative hand-crafted production techniques despite limited refrigeration, laying the foundation for an industry that has thrived for decades.
Central to the ordinance’s recognition is the legacy of the Guadaña family, credited with pioneering several of Iloilo’s best-known sorbete brands, including Inday Glen Ice Cream, Mary Hail Ice Cream, D’Lucky 7 Ice Cream, Federico Ice Cream, Carlutch Ice Cream, and Star of the Sea Ice Cream.
“Their entrepreneurial spirit not only sustained local livelihoods but also expanded the reach of Ilonggo sorbete beyond provincial borders,” Peñol said.
The ordinance also recognizes local innovators and industry leaders who strengthened the sorbete sector through ingredient manufacturing, barquillo production, product innovation and market expansion across Western Visayas.
It likewise acknowledges cultural traditions such as the free distribution of sorbete during Flores de Mayo and the grassroots establishment of Sorbete Day, which celebrates the community’s heritage and identity.
The provincial government also cited Pavia’s continuing efforts to preserve and promote the industry through initiatives such as the Baye-Baye Sorbete Challenge, the establishment of the “Sorbete de Pavia” brand and the advocacy of local sorbeteros to protect the authenticity and sustainability of the craft.
“Beyond its cultural significance, the ordinance highlights the sorbete industry’s role as a vital economic driver that has provided livelihood opportunities to generations of Pavianhon families, enabling countless individuals to pursue education and contribute meaningfully to society,” Peñol added.
Peñol said the historic declaration reinforces the province’s commitment to preserving local heritage, promoting cultural tourism, supporting micro, small and medium enterprises, and ensuring that Pavia’s sorbete tradition continues to flourish for generations./PN
