Discovering the City of Love

As an Ilonggo, sinigang na baboy has always been more than just a dish—it’s a warm reminder of home. I grew up watching my mother prepare it on quiet afternoons. The sour aroma of batuan simmering with pork would fill our kitchen, making everyone gather around the table even before the meal was ready. That familiar tangy broth, mixed with the softness of pork and the freshness of kangkong, always brought a sense of comfort that no fancy meal could match. Here in Iloilo, we have our own way of making sinigang stand out. Instead of the usual tamarind, we often use batuan, a fruit that gives the soup a distinct sourness that Ilonggos truly love. Every spoonful feels like a taste of tradition—simple ingredients, locally sourced, cooked with patience and care. Whether served in a carinderia or prepared at home, it’s the kind of food that reminds us of family gatherings and quiet Sundays spent together. For me, sinigang na baboy represents what it means to be Ilonggo—warm, grounded, and full...