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Nag PAMAHAW ako

Today I attended one of the two big culinary events ongoing in Iloilo City. I was at the Robinson’s Place mall to witness a gastronomic showdown wherein the victors will find their creations served in most hotels, resorts and restaurants in Iloilo.

Dubbed as Ti Ka PAMAHAW Ka Na? (Have you had your breakfast?), a culinary search for the typical Ilonggo breakfast. This contest was the brainchild of Mr. Ben Jimena, Director of Iloilo City Tourism Development Office. It was during one of his usual breakfast meetings that this idea came to him. Why not introduce a typical Ilonggo breakfast combo to go alongside with the typical American, Filipino, etc found on most menus. -

To quote Mr. Ben Jimena (my ninong - LOL) "I saw the usual offerings – American breakfast, continental breakfast and the standard Filipino almusal. So I though of coming up with an Ilonggo breakfast that will help create a truly Ilonggo culture and lifestyle. We must show to our visitors that they are indeed in Iloilo,”

Chefs in action at their makeshift kitchen at the Robinson's Place Activity Area

After months of preparation, today is the day when all these hard work ends. And tomorrow, who knows, you’ll be enjoying a typical Ilonggo breakfast prepared with love by these ten chefs. (Figuratively speaking of course, don’t blame me when you still can’t find them on the menu tomorrow, that’s July 26, 2009- lol)

Two judges, err... "grilling" Chef Norma Celiz's "Bangus con Gugma"

Chef Jason Philip Jacomille's table presenting his "Bino-otan nga Pangat"
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