A Night of Culinary Delight, Culture, and Compassion
Ayala Malls Greenbelt, in collaboration with Sociedad Española de Beneficencia (SEB), LTB Philippines Chefs Association, and other esteemed partners, proudly presented the triumphant return of Paella Gigante on March 16, 2024. The stage was set for an exhilarating evening celebrating the fusion of cultures through tantalizing flavors, rhythmic dances, hip-swaying music, and heartwarming community spirit.
As the clock struck 4 pm at Greenbelt 3 Park’s Sunken Garden, a night of culinary delight and cultural confluence unfolded, with host Angel Jacob on the mic. Live cooking demonstrations, Spanish song-and-dance performances, a selection of sangrias and wines, as well as an assortment of delectable Latin-inspired food booths transformed the event venue into a feast for the senses!
The Return of a Culinary Legacy
Paella Gigante started in 2012—a collaborative initiative by SEB, Ayala Malls Greenbelt, and LTB Philippines Chef Association—at the Casino Español. It was staged annually up until 2020, after which it went on hiatus through 2023 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pause only fueled the organizers’ determination to make a triumphant return in 2024. Paella Gigante returned not only as a culinary sensation, but also as the celebration of culture, compassion, and community that it has always been.
Through the work of SEB, established in 1948, Paella Gigante serves as a fundraising endeavor in providing essential support—including shelter, medical assistance, counseling, hospitalization, and interment aid—to Spanish and Filipino elderlies across various foundations. Beneficiaries include Kalipay Negrense, Little Sisters of the Abandoned Elderly, Makabata School Foundation, and Siervas de Jesus de la Caridad.
A Showcase of Culture and Compassion
This year, guests embarked on a cultural journey with a paso doble, and Sevillanas dance showcase, traditional Spanish songs, and the passion and energy of customary flamenco dance performed by the Centro Flamenco Philippines. A team of 25 chefs, led by renowned culinary experts, took the helm at the 12-foot-wide paellera, the evening’s main attraction.
Partners played a crucial role, as well, in the spirit of elevating every moment and in bringing the event’s comeback to successful, scrumptious fruition. LTB Philippines Chefs Association, the premier organization of chefs in the country, brought their culinary expertise to the forefront and gave it their all, to cook Manila’s biggest paella. Meanwhile, La Cámara Oficial Española de Comercio, Industria y Navegación, and other sponsors provided essential ingredients and logistical support.
The event was also made possible by the Embassy of Spain in the Philippines, and by the Instituto Cervantes de Manila.
Tickets for Paella Gigante were available for purchase at P500 pesos, all proceeds of which will contribute to supporting the programs of Sociedad Española de Beneficencia.
