Breeze Powers Up Every Mom’s Washing Experience with the New Breeze Power Machine’s Best Ever Clean

Breeze,   a   laundry   brand   known   for   tough   stain   removal, recently hosted an event to launch its new Breeze Power Machine Liquid Detergent with its Best Ever Clean compared to its previous formulations. With the goal of  empowering   every   mom,   this   revolutionary   product   is   speci%cally   designed   to enhance the   laundry   experience.   Breeze   Power   Machine   Liquid   comes   in   three variants: Fresh Clean, Rose Gold and the newest - Luxe Red. 

“The new Breeze Power Machine Liquid is a game-changer for moms who want the best for their families since they can tackle tough stains with con%dence given its improved formula that adds more power to their partner washing machine,” said Lara Santos, Business Performance Manager of Breeze Philippines. “We understand the daily challenges of laundry. Even after using a washing machine, most still have 

to manually scrub and soak for hours to remove tough stains and that’s why we’ve  continuously improved our product and makes the process easy.”

“Our  focus   was  on   creating  a   formula  that   delivers on   all  fronts—powerful   stain 

removal, a  refreshing  scent,  and  an  enhanced laundry  experience,” added  Amor Prieto, Unilever Research and Development Manager. “We want to give consumers a product that truly enhances their daily lives by making laundry not just a chore, but a rewarding task.”

The new Breeze Power Machine Liquid promises to level up your laundry game. With its  advanced formulation,   it  delivers  more   cleaning  power compared  to previous Breeze Power Machine Liquid  formula, ensuring a deep clean and leaves clothes with new fresh fragrance Breeze's latest innovation is all about giving more power to your washing machine compared to its previous formulations, making laundry day efficient and pleasant. 

As such, Breeze Power Machine Liquid is recommended by washing machine brands 

such as Condura, Dowell, Fujidenzo, and Midea.

Breeze Power Machine Liquid  Detergent   is available in all leading supermarkets nationwide and at Unilever Home Care’s Shopee and Lazada pages.

For more information, visit Breeze Philippines o6cial Facebook Page at

www.facebook.com/BreezePhilippines.

7-Eleven Introduces The Ultimate Rainy Season Comfort Food: Imperial Big Meal Noodles

As the Philippines enters the rainy season, there’s no better comfort food than a bowl of hot  noodles—a beloved staple in Filipino households, perfect for savoring and fighting off the chilly days. 

Always attuned to its customers' cravings, everyone’s favorite kapitbahay is an expert in bringing comfort to Filipinos with its seasonable and spot-on offerings. Just in time for the rainy days,   7-Eleven   is   delighted   to   introduce   a   scrumptious   treat   to   excite   the   whole   Filipino community   with   the   release   of  Imperial   Big   Meal   Noodles,  Taiwan’s   number   one  instant noodles.

7-Eleven’s  latest offering elevates  the comfort  food experience  with  real beef chunks from Australia and New Zealand  that are  tasty and tender  in every bite.   This meaty goodness is perfectly complemented with 4avorful broth and soft noodles. Now, instant noodle lovers can have a taste of an authentic Taiwanese experience wherever they are, all thanks to their trusted convenience store.

Customers can indulge like royalty while paying less because a bowl of Imperial Big Meal Noodles  starts at P125 each. The Taiwanese treat comes in two flavors:  Beef and Hot Beef. The Beef flavor is a perfect choice for those with  savory  cravings, while the Hot Beef option offers a spicy kick that’s apt for those with adventurous palates. 

Preparing Imperial Big Meal Noodles is a breeze—just make sure to add boiling water to cook the beef chunks fully, wait a few moments, dig in, and taste Taiwan in an instant.

Now   available   in   all   7-Eleven   stores   nationwide,   try   the   Imperial   Big   Meal  Noodles   for   a comforting and convenient meal, rain or shine. Cheers to 40 years with 7-Eleven and like us on 7-Eleven Philippines Facebook, follow @711ph on  Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

Healthy Options Champions Kindness to Future You

 

When I found out that my daughter, my third child had Diabetes Mellitus, our life made a drastic change.  I was regularly baking pastries as it was my side hustle and we just love sweets, but had to limit it to only when there were orders.  We have to stop taking in everything that has sugar and give up on sodas.  It was hard to get whole foods, sugar-free treats, and organic pantry staples back then.  It was chaos when going to the grocery store as everything seemed unhealthy.  I never knew Healthy Options back then, she was only five years old.

Then, I came to discover the store in a certain mall, I can't recall where but I do remember the happiness on my daughter's when we found sugar-free chocolates, foodstuff perfect for her, and chromium picolinate, the best multivitamins for diabetics as it helps in lowering blood sugar.  My daughter is now 20 years old and the whole family has been benefitting to this change.

An Eventful GLOCAL Affair to Remember as Marry Me at Marriot Celebrates 10th Edition

 

I have seen Marriott Bonvoy through new eyes, as they beamed with pride during the Marry Me at Marriott event.  It was my first of firsts, as I'm not into fashion shows or design, and even though I worked in the events scene back in the day (as a wedding and event planner), my excitement could not still be contained.  

Marriott Bonvoy and the rest of Marriott hotels in the Philippines successfully celebrated the 10th edition of its prestigious signature bridal showcase, Marry Me at Marriott, with the theme “Paving the way to #morewinningmoments”.  The hashtag was befitting, as everyone who attended the grandiose event experienced many winning moments.

This milestone event marked a decade of weddings and social marketing emulated by other players in the hotel industry for consistently showcasing unmatched sophistication and groundbreaking initiatives in bridal fashion, culinary arts, and bespoke weddings and social services.

In 2022, Marry Me at Marriott served as a launch pad to create a more purposeful and full-blown campaign, dubbed, “Marriott Moments”. It was also in 2022 that the Marriott Bonvoy team took notice of the promising plan that was laid out that year, and viewed it as an undertaking that should be made on a market-wide level. The now award-winning Marriott Moments campaign is harnessed on three major components: Onstage with Marry Me at Marriott, On-ground with Marriott Moments A-Fair: Dream Weddings and Events Expo, and Online which consist of our year-round marketing initiatives that help strengthen our presence online and in the digital marketplace. These are all anchored on the genuine commitment to convey to their guests that Marriott is the ideal venue for creating lasting memories and winning moments for everyone. 

Growing Presence in the Philippines

Consul General of the Philippines in New York, Senen T. Mangalile gave the opening remarks.  Mangalile is a diplomat who is known for his dedication in fostering international relations and has been instrumental in supporting the Filipino community in the US North East. 

The show proper opened with Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels by Lambretta’s colorful scooters circling the huge runway following by the entrance of big flags, each representing the 10 properties of Marriott in the Philippines paraded with the leaders of each of the properties. 

Currently Marriott has 10 hotels carrying the most reputable global brands in hospitality namely, Marriott, Sheraton, Westin, Courtyard, Fairfield, Four Points by Sheraton, and soon AC Hotels by Marriott.

Marry Me at Marriott: Philippine Gratus Gala

This year’s signature event evolved into what it is called now, the “Marry Me at Marriott: Philippine Gratus Gala”. Marry Me at Marriott has cemented its position as the sought-after signature marketing event of Marriott in the Philippines that several players in the industry started to emulate. “We are now moving forward and calling it, Marry Me at Marriott: Philippine Gratus Gala, because other than weddings, we believe life is meant to be celebrated no matter how big or small of a milestone maybe, all in the spirit of being grateful, every occasion deserves a Marriott Moment.” says Bruce Winton, Marriott International Multi-property Vice President – The Philippines.      

Star-Studded GLOCAL Affair

Topnotch fashion designers Bessie Besana from New York City, Veejay Floresca from Los Angeles, Hannah Kong from Luzon, Axel Que from Visayas, and Wilson Limon from Mindanao adorned the runway of the prestigious fashion show. Their innovative fashion design worn by first-rate professional models from Mercator and celebrity muses made the audience in awe. Special appearances of 2015 Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, 2015 Miss Earth Angelia Ong, and 2024 Miss Universe Philippines Chelsea Manalo, who was a former associate of one of the Marriott hotels in the Philippines added allure to the show making the night even more memorable.

A Grateful Tribute

In a heartfelt tribute, the “Marriott Gratus Gem” a symbol of gratitude and excellence was launched to honor designers, event stylists, and partners who have contributed to Marry Me at Marriott over the past decade. Each of the awardee received a masterpiece creatively carved out by renowned visual artist and sculptor, Maestro Cameron Castrillo embellished with Twin Princess Gems’ Ruby gemstone, complete with certificate of authenticity.     

Honoring a Visionary: Frederick Peralta

One of the recipients of the first Marriott Gratus Gem is the legendary Frederick Peralta, who is being honored for his invaluable contribution as an icon to the fashion industry. Some of his classic creations including the wedding gown of celebrity Ai-ai Delas Alas was showcased on the catwalk before receiving the award. Peralta’s works have redefined wedding couture, making dreams come true for countless brides and grooms. His creativity and generous spirit graced the very first runway of Marry Me at Marriott 10 years ago, setting the foundation of Marry Me at Marriott. His support and belief in the initiative speak volume about his character and passion to uplift the fashion community. 

A Winning Partnership

Presented by Marriott Bonvoy, Marry Me at Marriott was made possible with the collaboration Marriott’s hotels in the Philippines: Marriott Hotel Manila, Sheraton Manila Hotel, Clark Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Manila Bay, Sheraton Cebu Mactan Resort, The Westin Manila, in cooperation with Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo, Four Points by Sheraton Palawan Puerto Princesa, Four Points by Sheraton Boracay, and Fairfield by Marriott Cebu Mandaue.

Marriott also is also grateful on the support given by esteemed partners: FILIPINXT, SAGA EVENTS, COTE, Themes and Motifs, Newport World Resorts, Flowers & Events by Teddy Manuel, Jesi Mendez Salon, Twin Princess Gems, Lambretta, Maestro Cameron Castrillo, Bernie Pasamba and the music masters, Pix & Reel Republik, Stage Riggers, 10-Inch Lights and Sounds, LX Events Pro, 88 Media Productions, Biore, Liese, Jergens, Caronia, Lumi Candles, Perfume Dessert, Y.O.U Beauty, Philippine Wine Merchant, Evian, Emperador Distillers Inc., Bottega SpA, Grand Cru Wines, Stella Rosa, Pernod Ricard, Budweiser, Corona, Hoegaarden, Stella Artois, Club Marriott, Kao Day and Night Club Asian Gastronomic Restaurant, Rotary Club Passport One, One Gallery, LuChris Printing Corporation, Paperless PR and Creative Agency, Selrahco, Preview, Esquire, Metro.Style, Pep.PH, Asian Journal, BalikBayan Magazine, So Janelle TV and MegaMixx 101.9 Guam.

For more information about Marriott Hotel Manila, call (632) 8988 9999 or visit www.manilamarriott.com. Stay updated on their latest offers by following @manilamarriott on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

A Taste of Home with Family-Favorite Recipes from Richard Gomez and Marjorie Barretto

The lingering warmth of summer had faded away,  and clouds with rain came floating in the skies, bringing in some cold in the atmosphere.  There's no better time to warm up, gather around the table, and savor the comforting flavors of classic family recipes.

From the kitchens of celebrity home cooks Richard Gomez and Marjorie Barretto, here are some delightful recipes- all made with Dona Elena Olive Oil - that the family will surely enjoy. From nourishing recipes to dishes that call for rich and hearty ingredients, these celebrity home cooks prove that with Doña Elena, the possibilities are endless. 

7-Eleven’s Japanese Curry Meals Are Bound to Be Everyone’s Newest Favorites

While everyone seemed to be traveling to Japan or saving up for one, I had contented myself with its cuisine here in our household.

As we all can attest, convenience is key at 7-Eleven, thus, when it comes to finding world-class eats anywhere, visiting their stores is the way to go.  I'm sure you had your share of gourmet dishes from renowned local Chefs down to the savory Korean yummies.  It has been 40 years of service and they've managed to bring a variety of cuisines closer to Filipinos.   Now they’re expanding their delectable menu with another mouthwatering slew of dishes inspired by Japan.

Introducing the Japanese Curry Party Lineup, three scrumptious rice meals available in pork, beef,  and chicken that come with a rich curry sauce from one of the  biggest   curry manufacturers   in  Japan,  House Foods.   Customers will surely flock to the sauce’s mouthwatering scent and robust and flavorful taste medley of caramelized onion, roasted garlic, miso, and the aroma of cardamom. 

Get   a   taste   of   these   restaurant-quality   delights   at   budget-friendly   prices,   starting   with   the Hamburg Steak Curry for ₱139. Topped with delicious melted cheese, it’s a perfectly cooked beef steak patty served with curry sauce and plain rice.

Sounds appetizing? 

Customers can treat themselves to more options such as the Pork Katsu Curry at ₱139 and Chicken Karaage Curry for ₱129. Both are generously covered in luscious curry sauce, served with fragrant white rice, garnished with yellow radish for an added sweet taste with every bite. 

7-Eleven food options can always be trusted to be accessible, convenient, and tasty, but the choices this time around are even more special as they carry the seal of approval of Let’s Eat Pare.   A   community-led   Facebook   group   that   provides   a   space   for   foodies   to   discuss   and critique the latest food drops, their opinions are highly regarded by online users as a credible source on whether a new product is worth the try.

Spot these fresh drops right away on 7-Eleven shelves with the coveted Let’s Eat Pare logo for a guaranteed quality eating experience.   

Get pumped and taste the curry party today as these Let’s Eat Pare-approved rice meals are now available in 7-Eleven stores around Luzon.

Cheers   to   40   years   with   7-Eleven   and   like   us   on   7-Eleven   Philippines   Facebook,   follow @711ph   on  Instagram, and @711philippines on Twitter and TikTok for more information.

Catch the Crunch with Purefoods Seafood Delights

 

We have been shying away from shrimp lately as I find it hard to squeeze in visits to the market.  However, I discovered that our favorite frozen meat brand have caught on to the needs of modern family's kitchen habit. 

Thus, it's definitely time to cast those worries  into the sea and catch Purefoods Seafood Delights!

These tasty treats are ready to cook, fry, and eat, making your mealtime a breeze. Say goodbye 

to  mealtime  dilemmas  and  hello  to delicious,  nutritious  dishes  for the whole family to love,

creating joyful, memorable moments around the table.

Mondelēz International Achieves Plastic Packaging Goals in the Philippines

• Company meets EPR commitment of collecting and diverting equivalent volumes of plastic 

• Reducing packaging, evolving packaging, and helping improve diversion systems 

    Global snacking leader Mondelēz International strives to advance its support for a more circular economy for packaging in the Philippines. Recently, the Company has made strides to advance more sustainable snacking by reducing its packaging use, evolving its packaging, and helping improve diversion systems in the Country. Most notably, the Company has achieved its commitment to collect and divert the equivalent volumes of its post-consumer plastic packaging used in the Philippines in 2023. This is in support of the local Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, which obliges companies to be responsible for the plastic they use in their operations. 

    As part of its mission to lead the future of snacking, Mondelēz International empowers people to snack right, by offering the right snack, for the right moment, and made the right way. Making snacks the right way for both the people and the planet means focusing on making snacks with more sustainable ingredients as well as supporting a more circular economy for packaging. Mondelēz International is the maker of Oreo, Toblerone, Cadbury Dairy Milk, Tang, Eden Cheese, Cheez Whiz and Tiger Biscuits. 

First Likhaan Fair: A Day Celebrating Filipino Artistry and Craftsmanship this June 2024

Likhaan, a trailblazing online platform for Filipino creators, is thrilled to announce its first-ever pop-up event, the Likhaan Fair, taking place on June 22, from 10 AM to 6 PM at Launch Garage in Quezon City.

This FREE, one-day event will showcase a diverse collection of handmade creations from Filipino artists, craftsmen, and suppliers under Likhaan, all in a vibrant space where these talented creatives can display and sell their extraordinary works.

About Likhaan Fair

The Likhaan Fair aims to unite art enthusiasts, collectors, and local community members in a celebration of Filipino culture and creativity. By offering a venue where local artists can shine, the event seeks to foster a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

FROM ONE MOTHER TO ANOTHER

We all know who Dimples Romana is as a good actress, but only a few know about her as a mother.  Allow me to share some of the message she have imparted regarding some tips for our fellow moms on Mother's Day.

As days go by, more and more complex human tasks are either being assisted, if not completely accomplished by artificial intelligence (AI). But no advanced technology will ever match the strength that mothers show in facing the complex challenges of parenting. Giving mothers the strength and ginhawa they need allows them to provide the same for their families. 

 

How do they do it? Actress and working mother of three Dimples Romana offers a piece of her mind.

TIP 1: Find your support system.

“Having three kids while working is a bit of a challenge. Thankfully, I am surrounded by good people - both family and friends,” Dimples said.

 

After giving birth to her third child two years ago, Dimples remains grateful for the immense support that her husband Boyet (whom she fondly calls “Papa B”) gives in ensuring that all their kids are always well and happy. To keep her guided as she gets through every day, Dimples firmly holds on to her family and her faith.

 

“Family. Sila talaga ang lakas ko. At dasal. Madaming madaming dasal,” she added.

 

 

TIP 2: Time management is priority-setting.

 

The showbiz industry always demands long hours but Dimples always makes time for family. 

 

“No matter how busy I get and how crazy our shoot schedules go, I make sure intentional ang pag-set ko ng time with my family,” she said.

 

She would even discourage her family from using phones whenever they do activities together to ensure that they are all absolutely present.

 

“No phones muna, no other distractions. Just them,” she added.

 

 

TIP 3: Self-care.

 

Being a mother may be a 24/7 job but everybody needs a break from everything–and everyone. 

 

“Recently ko lang talaga natutunan ito. I almost reached a burnt out stage kaya I got worried. That’s when I really took a step back and reassessed what needs to be done,” Dimples added.

 

For Dimples, taking solo road trips, going on a date with herself at cafes and restaurants, and reading good books keep her mind at ease. She also regularly keeps an eye on her spiritual well-being through prayer and meditation.

 

Most importantly, what allows Dimples to stay on top of the complexities of being a mother is staying well and healthy by practicing good skin care, as well as taking supplements and vitamins that she needs to stay strong and active.

 

“Tiwala ako sa Actimed Quality Generics which I buy from Generika Drugstore. When I know I’m strong, I can also keep my family strong,” Dimples added.

 

 

TIP 4: Remember why you love being a mom.

 

For Dimples, the best thing in being a mother is the job itself. But like any job, being a mother involves risks and challenges.

 

“Iba na din talaga ang hirap ng buhay ngayon. We truly have to count our blessings sa bawat araw na nakikita nating masaya, malusog, at ligtas ang pamilya natin sa ano mang sakit o karamdaman,”  Dimples said.

 

But what makes the risks worth taking is the reward that constantly reminds Dimples why she loves being a mom.

 

“It’s having the ability to raise children who will hopefully make the world a kinder, safer, and happier place for all,” she stressed.

 

Despite these tips, no one really knows the best formula to being the most effective mom, or parent for that matter. But everybody knows that it takes a lot to do so much with so little –whether it’s time, money, or know-how– and even more difficult to choose to do it everyday. Ultimately, a mother like Dimples finds comfort–a sense of ginhawa– in knowing that there are millions of others who also draw their daily strength from their unique experiences of caring for their families, and are always ready to share their learnings, from one mother to another.

 

Ginhawang Mother’s Day to all moms!

Tastesetters Victors Night: Celebrating Innovations in the Food and Beverage Industry

 

April was said to be the month when Filipino food is celebrated, and what a way to keep it alive and remarkable than having one at the Tastesetters Victors awarding night at the Yuchengco Museum last April 11, 2024.  It was when Tastesetters brought together culinary experts and enthusiasts to celebrate the innovations that continue to push the food and beverage industry forward. 

Tastesetters believes that food is a work of art, which is why they have chosen the snazzy Yuchengco Museum to be the setting of the event. By combining complex flavors and intricate plating techniques, gastronomic masterpieces are created that surprise and delight the senses. They also partnered with local artists Mario “Ram” Mallari Jr., Nina Bantoto, and Bimbo Yance, bassist of The Dawn, who generously exhibited their skill and expertise that commemorate the creativity that food and art share. 

Upon my  arrival, I was greeted with cocktails at the outdoor reception area.  Sweet and savory creations were served to set the tone for the evening.  Next to the registration table was a dirty ice cream stand, which I thought was just there to amend for the heat, it was actually a unique treat that transcends all your understanding of the ice cream.   I couldn't stop myself trying out Manong Sorbetero’s Adobo Caramel Sorbetes with Pork Floss and Kare Kare Sorbetes with Tulip Dark Chocolate Paste and Jif Crunchy Peanut Butter.  They were absolutely and surprisingly yummy without being overwhelming.  the taste of savory melds in perfectly with the sweetness from the featured ingredients.  Had Chef Sonny not told me about them I would not have tried them.

On to the appetizers such as Palabok in Pani Puri, using San Remo Angel Hair Pasta with Clara Olé Cream-based Pasta Sauce Crab Flavor, Kinilaw na Hamachi at Scallops with TABASCO Sriracha, and US Beef Belly Kansi, which were all-together impressive teasers for the feast to come.

At the main hall, the event started with Tastesetters displaying their expertise by speaking on the food and beverage innovations that they spotted. In the past years, they identified emerging trends that eventually made it big in the scene–like the dominance of matcha, the return of black-colored dishes, the craze for Korean cakes, and more. 

This year, they presented various upcoming innovations that will excite and inspire chefs and diners alike.

First is Gastronomic Artistry, which is the theme of the event. This interprets the plate as a blank canvas that encourages chefs to create illusions, illustrations, and even sculptures that turn dishes into awe-inspiring masterpieces. 

The second looks back on how Korean culture has increasingly influenced local industries, notably through its cuisine. Samgyeopsal and bingsu have become favorites, while ramyeon and kimchi are now pantry staples for Filipinos. The Next K-Wave invites culinary experts to discover the new ingredient, flavor, or dish that will be the next big sensation in the country. 

Tropical ingredients like coconut, mango, calamansi, and watermelon get the spotlight it deserves on the third trend. This invites industry leaders to get a Taste of the Tropics by incorporating these island elements into dishes in unexpected ways. 

Complex heat in food has slowly emerged through the years. From just challenging others with increasing intensity, this fourth trend creates a wider spectrum of spicy flavors up and down the spicy scale. Turn the Heat Up by being more clever in adding that more intentional kick of spice to food and drink.

Now is the opportune time to put Health on a Plate. This fifth trend rides on people’s shifting behaviors to, now, being more mindful about what they eat and put into their bodies. By swapping certain ingredients to go for more wholesome alternatives or indicating the calorie count of each item on the menu, restaurant owners can create healthy and refreshing plates that revitalize from the inside. 

Getting in on the Saucy Secrets may be easier said than done. With this sixth trend, popular dishes, like sisig, are remade into intriguing condiments. Its iconic flavors are taken from the sizzling plate and put into bottles that can be used as a surprising addition to other dishes. 

Lastly, Gourmet for All democratizes certain elements of upscale dining to create food that’s within the reach of a wider market. Fine ingredients like truffle and caviar are put into more accessible food like chips, instant noodles, fries, and more. 

After all the forecasted food trends were presented, the evening transitioned into the awaited degustation dinner. Created by Tastesetters’ very own Chef Sonny Mariano and Chef Wado Siman, the menu celebrated iconic Filipino cuisine. The chefs pushed the envelope further by adding surprising twists and flavors with SYSU products that updated these beloved dishes. 

The experience started off deliciously with the Benguet Corn Chawan Mushi and Reconstructed Tokwa’t Baboy with TABASCO Chipotle.  The above photo, which partially looks like sliced turon (sweetened banana rolls) evokes a staple Filipino savory snack with a hint of Mexican taste from the chipotle sauce.  While the other is inspired by the Japanese steamed egg custard but accentuated with truffle oil, which I truly enjoyed.

The guests, including  me dined salu-salo style enjoying reimagined Filipino classics such as Balamban Lechon Baboy seasoned with Old Bay Seasoning that had three sauces, including one made with Clara Olé Pineapple Jam.  It also included the "burong mangga" in local craft beer.  I went fancy over the three "sawsawan," as it was typical for us Filipinos to have one especially if we are eating with grilled or fried meat, in this case, the Cebu-based roast.  The addition of Clara Ole Pineapple jam gave the lechon an exquisite taste with the mix of sweet and tangy flavors, giving that Taste of the Tropic trend.

Making the feast healthier, the Adobong Pusit Adlai, was the absolute compromise from the regular rice dishes.  It was prepared using the Clara Olé Pasta Negra Sauce, and made more delightful with the Burrata cheese and tomato confit.  I love how it was presented, looking like a magical garden with a semblance of moss and edible florets, makes you really dig in for the priced carbs.

Of course, a meal course isn't complete without a vegetable dish, hence, Kare-Kareng Gulay, which was made with Jif Peanut Butter complimented with a vegan bagoong.  The addition of crispy pechay or Chinese cabbage was a game-changer.

A homage to the Quezon fiesta is this Seafood Habhab, the chefs' rendition of pancit habhab,  When the triangular bowl filled with vinegar was placed on the table, I instantly knew what was served next.

More meat dishes came in the form of saucy and vibrantly presented and executed manner.  If you think there's nothing more to do with Kaldereta as it is glorious in itself already, wait till I tell you how I enjoyed their version.  

The tender and succulent beef was rendered in Bugnay wine and it was evident they used US Short ribs cooked ala Bourguignon served with a yummy mash of sweet potato and carrot.  But wait, the experience was made more elevated with braised onions, making me remember Julia Child.

How about a different Chicken Inasal, something that is drenched in its own juice but with a citrusy flavor already?   Too bad, I was not able to try the crunchy chicken skin served with it.

The final course included a Cassube Flan, made with McCormick Ube Flavor, and a Cashew Mazapan, made using Embassy Chocolate’s Zen 33% White Couverture and McCormick’s Vanilla and Ube Flavors, intended to be eaten with the edible menus–much to everyone’s surprise. 

Once the guests were delighted by the feast, the much-anticipated awarding ceremony commenced. The Tastesetters team identified three nominees that embodied each of the five categories and one winner that stood out from the pack. 

First, the Rookie-Up and Coming award celebrated the businesses new to the Tastesetters scene. They are the ones to watch and are anticipated to make it big in the industry. While Lawson and Chick n’ Juicy were nominated, Mrs. G Cakeshop Corporation took home the custom trophy by artists Ram Mallari and Nina Bantoto. 

Second, the Operations Efficiency award highlighted establishments that optimized workflow, customer service, resource management, and the like. Binondo Foods Corporation clinched the award after being nominated with Waffle Time and Philippine Seven Corporation. 

The Marketing & Promotions award was up third with the nominees being Pho Hoa, Binondo Foods Corporation, and Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings. This accolade puts marketing efforts front and center. Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings ultimately won because of their impactful strategies that made waves online and offline. 

Being the bread and butter of Tastesetters, the Menu/Product Development award focused on those who create innovations that consistently impress their customers–whether they’re regulars or newcomers. Philippine Seven Corporation won the prize after being nominated with Bon Chon and Hopia King Bakery. 

Finally, Collaborator of the Year celebrates establishments that initiate productive partnerships, keep good supplier relationships, and more. Frankie’s New York Buffalo Wings and Hopia King Bakery were nominated alongside the category winner, Authenquick Foods Corporation. 

To close the event, Miss Sandy Cu, the Product and Business Development Head of SYSU International, led a toast to celebrate the coming together of industry experts and enthusiasts for an evening of impeccable food, beautiful pieces of art, and inspiring displays of innovation.

Stay tuned for exciting news on Tastesetters’ upcoming events, workshops, seminars, and more. Be the first to know when you follow Tastesetters on Facebook. For more information, visit their website.