Talented Filipino chefs take center stage at this culinary event

During Filipino Food Month at the Sheraton Hotel Manila on April 24, 2024, foodies, restaurant owners and culinary experts came together for “HIGARA: A Night of Filipino Food Culture, 6 Hands Dinner With Filipina Chefs.”

This event highlighted the culinary talents of three talented Filipino chefs: Waya Araos-Wijangco, Gel Salonga-Datu and Rhea Castro SyCip.

Photo: National Commission for Culture and the Arts

Chef Jam Melchor, head of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement, opened the event with an opening message, followed by Agnes Catherine Miranda of the Department of Agriculture and Hon. Verna Covar-Buensuceso from the Ministry of Tourism. Victorino Mapa Manalo Chairman of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts commended the chefs for elevating Philippine cuisine.

The menu, put together by the three chefs, included snacks pinikpikan rillette by Chef Araos-Wijangco and Kulawu salad from Chef Salonga-Datu, including main courses Banguigui-Sulu marlin from chef Araos-Wijangco and calderet tongs pato from Chef Castro SyCip, and desserts such as bibingka cheesecake from Chef Salonga-Datu and binaki by Chef Castro SyCip.

Photo: National Commission for Culture and the Arts

The evening was enriched with performances by Banda Kawayan, Ramon Obusan Folkloric Group, Bayang Barrios and Angeli Benipayo. A tribute video honored the farmers who contributed to the meals we enjoy. Beyond food alone, the event celebrated stories, culture and the unique experiences that define Philippine cuisine.