Western Visayas Showcases Culinary Excellence at DOT’s Lasa at Likha: A Chefs’ Masterclass

Global City-Home to some of the Philippines’ most celebrated flavors and culinary traditions, Western Visayas proudly took center stage at the Department of Tourism’s Lasa at Likha: A Chefs’ Masterclass, held on July 27, 2026 at Brittany Hotel, Bonifacio Global City.

Organized by the DOT-Office of Product Development, the masterclass brought together culinary professionals from across the country for a day of learning, collaboration, and innovation-strengthening Filipino cuisine while advancing the country’s culinary tourism on the regional and global stage.

Representing Western Visayas were some of the region’s outstanding culinary champions:
👨‍🍳 Chef Jose Ariel Castañeda, Jr. – Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo
👨‍🍳 Chef Alejo Vincent Abawan – Tultul Salt Manufacturing, Guimaras
👨‍🍳 Chef Kim Alastair Losaria – La Marings. Ph
👨‍🍳 Mr. Wilfredo Sadio – Antikenyu Takun Grill, Baka Naman Atbp & Kampo Resto Bar, Antique
👨‍🍳 Mr. Nickie Bryan Dolendo – The Edge, Capiz
👨‍🍳 Chef Garry Ordonez – Mövenpick Resort & Spa Boracay
👨‍🍳 Chef Mitchell Gepana – Mayas Filipino and Mexican Cuisine, Boracay

As the home of world-renowned dishes, exceptional local ingredients, and rich food traditions, Western Visayas continues to strengthen its position as one of the Philippines’ premier gastronomic destinations. Through initiatives like Lasa at Likha, DOT empowers culinary professionals to elevate local flavors, preserve culinary heritage, and bring the best of Filipino cuisine to more tables around the world.

Together, we celebrate the chefs and food artisans who continue to tell the story of our region-one unforgettable dish at a time.

#LoveThePhilippines #LoveWesternVisayas #LasaAtLikha #CulinaryTourism #Gastronomy #FilipinoCuisine #WesternVisayas