Students and academic staff from the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management (CTHM) joined the culinary competitions at the 15th Philippine Food Expo 2023, organized by the Philippine Food Processors and Exporters Organization, Inc. (PHILFOODEX) and CUT Unlimited Inc. It was held from April 28 to 30, 2023, at the SMX Convention Center Manila.
The Food Expo highlighted the culinary skills of students and professionals through various competitions. Various categories were offered, such as Food Styling, Food Photography, Healthy Pasta, Kitchen Master, Modern Filipino Dessert, Mystery Ingredient, and Table Setting.
CTHM student Sofia Angela Paja, who partnered with Chef Maria Karmel Grace Labay, was named Champion in Modern Filipino Dessert Category. They presented the following dishes: Mango-Brazo Bicho-Bicho (Bicho-Bicho filled with Mango-Barzo Custard, Mango-Rum Compote, Dragon Fruit Coulis, and Fresh Fruit Salad in Pandan Syrup); Stuffed Mango-Bugnay Palitaw (Palitaw stuffed with Kesong Puti and Latik served in a Mango-Coconut Soup; and Mango-Tibok Souffle (Souffle of Mango Tibok-Tibok served with Pastillas Sauce and Fruit Salsa)
CTHM instructor Chef Reinald Andaya coached them along with Chef Kristian Kristoffer Roque, who served as the team’s consultant.
Also participating in various competitions during the food expo were: Daniel Dalipe and Chef Elija Coronado (Mystery Ingredient category) and Marc Rensus Espinosa and Chef Dos Bustillos (Health Pasta category).
