The much awaited event was marked with a night of culinary delights, culture, and compassion.
An event with a giant paella? Who can say no to that? ¡Por supuesto, nadie! No one, of course!
Ayala Malls Greenbelt, in collaboration with Sociedad Española de Beneficencia (SEB) and esteemed partners, proudly launched the return of Paella Gigante at Greenbelt 3 Park. The occasion was marked with a celebration of cultures, flavors, rhythms, and community spirit.
The event kicked off at sundown with the pouring of 15 liters of Spanish olive oil in an enormous pan by key representatives from Sociedad Espanola de Beneficencia (SEB), Ayala Malls, the Spanish Embassy, and LTB Philippines Chefs Association.
This was followed by a mouthwatering paella-making demonstration courtesy of 25 chefs from the esteemed LTB Philippines Chefs Association. The chefs gave it their all to ensure that the event was a success, delighting the taste buds of every guest in attendance.
They also helped source the premium ingredients from different sponsors. Among the ingredients that had been sourced were: 60kg of chicken from AFC; 100kg of paella rice from McAsia; 80kg of seafood from Mida (squid 30kg, prawns 30kg, mussels 20kg); 30kg of chorizo from Tierra de Espana; 70kg of vegetables from 3KA (red and green peppers 40kg, onions 20kg, garlic 10kg); and 15 liters of Spanish olive oil from Espafil.
Ayala Malls Greenbelt has been hosting Paella Gigante for years. Despite a hiatus in the annual event from 2020 through 2023 due to the pandemic, the pause only fueled the determination to make its return this 2024 truly gigantic.
The return of a culinary legacy
SEB, established in 1948, is dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of elderly individuals, both Spanish and Filipino.
In 2012, Paella Gigante emerged as a joint initiative by SEB, Ayala Malls Greenbelt, and the LTB Philippines Chefs Association.
The project serves as a fundraising endeavor to provide essential support, including shelter, medical assistance, counseling, hospitalization, and interment aid.
Guests embarked on a cultural journey with a paso doble and sevillanas dance showcase, a Spanish drum circle encouraging free-spirited dancing, and the passion and energy of traditional Flamenco dance performances by skilled Flamenco dancers.
In the spirit of elevating every moment, every partner played a crucial role in making the event one for the books. The LTB Philippines Chefs Association 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 and support.
With their collaborative effort, the night was more than just successful—it was magical.
Flamenco dancers.
La Cámara, with 185 chambers in 45 countries, continues its unwavering commitment to promoting trade relations between Spain and the Philippines. Notably, 2024 marks the 125th year of La Camara’s impactful mission, evolving to remain relevant.
SEB’s commitment extends to supporting various beneficiaries, including elderly individuals, religious communities, and foundations such as Kalipay Negrense, Little Sisters of the Abandoned Elderly, Makabata School Foundation, and Siervas de Jesus de la Caridad.
Tickets for Paella Gigante were priced at P500 with all proceeds from ticket sales contributing to support the programs of Sociedad Española de Beneficencia (SEB).
