In a gallant display of effort and determination, MIHCA students and alumni bagged 6 medals in the recently concluded Philippine Culinary Cup (PCC) and Philippine Barista Cup (PBC) held at the SMX Convention Center last August 3 – 6.
On day one, John Millar pulled quite a coup by bagging the over-all championship for the non-professional category of the Barista Cup. His signature drink and impressive display of confidence wowed the judges as he brought MIHCA the distinction of being back-to-back champions in the category having lorded over the competition last year.
“I’m very happy that I was able to pull off this feat. It’s no easy task, but through hard work with my coach, we brought back the championship to MIHCA,” Millar said in reference to his mentor, Food and Beverage services instructor, Mr. Ernie Mesina.
A day later, it was Richard Abellanoza’s turn to strike gold at the US Poultry category with his masterful ballotine dish. The judges cannot help but give him the distinction, despite very stiff competition, due to the flawless execution of his menu.
Other competitors who claimed bronze medals at PCC were Marc Duane Villagracia for the Local Fish or Seafood category, Raymund Chua for the US Beef category, John Hendrix for the Australian Lamb category and Jorge Paolo Estember also for the US Lamb category.
“It was quite a rush watching the students compete at such a very aggressive level. All the competitors showed their willingness to win and we had to match, even surpass, that to perform well,” shared Chef Mia Yan who acted as coach.
Joining Chef Mia as coaches are Chef Mike Navarra, Chef Jomar Medrano and Chef Eric Gruba.
MIHCA has brought recognition to the country by participating in various competitions locally and abroad. Most recently, a group of MIHCA and Makati Shangri-La Chefs took home 7 medals out of 10 categories in the recently concluded International Culinary Cup at HOFEX 2011. This year, the instructors and students are also setting their sights on the upcoming National Food Showdown.
“We expect a tougher field there, so we’re doubling our efforts in preparation of the competitions. We look forward to the challenges,” according to Chef Mia.
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About MIHCA
Magsaysay Center for Hospitality and Culinary Arts (MIHCA) is the leading culinary arts and hospitality institution in the country, and has successfully launched careers for promising professionals. A turn key operation of the Magsaysay Group of Companies, MIHCA offers the best modern facilities and global certificate programs.
Campuses:
MIHCA Manila
3rd Floor Times Plaza Building, U.N. Ave. cor. Taft Avenue
3rd Floor Times Plaza Building, U.N. Ave. cor. Taft Avenue
Manila
Office: 524-9996
Office: 524-9996
MIHCA Makati
5th Floor Waltermart Mall, Chino Roces Ave. cor. Arnaiz Ave.
5th Floor Waltermart Mall, Chino Roces Ave. cor. Arnaiz Ave.
Makati City
Office: 887-5329 / 889-1707
Office: 887-5329 / 889-1707
Website: www.mihca.com.ph
