The tasty Paella Gigante initiative returns after a three-year hiatus to bring people together and raise funds for good causes through a massive Spanish feast.
Ayala Malls Greenbelt, in collaboration with Sociedad Española de Beneficencia (SEB) presented the return of Paella Gigante last March 16, 2024!
Live cooking demonstrations, Spanish performances, a photo booth, wines, and a diverse array of vendors transform the venue into a feast for the senses!
SEB was established in 1948 and is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of elderly individuals, both Spanish and Filipino. In 2012, Paella Gigante emerged as a joint initiative by SEB, Ayala Malls Greenbelt, and LTB Philippines Chef Association and served as a fundraising endeavor to provide essential support, including shelter, medical assistance, counseling, hospitalization, and interment aid.
Despite a hiatus in the annual event from 2020 through 2023 due to the pandemic, Paella Gigante returned as a culinary spectacle celebrating culture, compassion, and community.
LTB Philippines Chefs Association, the premier chefs association in the Philippines, brought their culinary expertise to create Manila’s biggest paella, while La Cámara Oficial Española de Comercio, Industria y Navegación, and other sponsors provided essential ingredients to create the massive paella mixta, a Filipino version of the Spanish paella. This included chorizo, chicken, bell peppers, squid, shrimps, and mussels.
La Camara, with 185 chambers in 45 countries, continues its unwavering commitment to promoting trade relations between Spain and the Philippines. 2024 marks the 125th year of La Camara’s impactful mission, evolving and adapting to remain relevant.
SEB’s commitment extends to supporting various beneficiaries such as KalipayNegrense, Little Sisters of the Abandoned Elderly, Makabata School Foundation, and Siervas de Jesus de la Caridad. All proceeds from the ticket sales will contribute to supporting the programs of SEB.
Photos by Pepper Teehankee.