World Association of Master Chefs

Author: Carlo Baroa

  • 2025 Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival

     

    The 2025 Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival ignited the city with culinary passion as chefs, students, and local talents competed in the Fire & Fusion Cook-Off, showcasing the best of Bacolod’s rich food culture. Master Chef Carlo Baroa, our Global Director for Organizational Development and Regional Director for Southeast Asia for the World Association of Master Chefs, had the privilege of serving as a judge alongside esteemed culinary figures, Chef Cidj Jalandoni and Chef Theo Alejandrino, assessing bold creations from barangays, universities, and culinary schools. The competition was fierce, the flavors unforgettable, and the event a true celebration of Bacolod’s culinary spirit.

    Adding even more heat to the festival was the fiery Hot Sauce Workshop at Ayala Capitol Central Mall, whereMaster Chef Carlo Baroa proudly represented Grill Central-Marketplace and All Things Sauce. Demonstrating the power of innovative sauces, he shared techniques to elevate everyday dishes into explosive flavors, captivating attendees with his expertise in blending tradition with creativity.

    The event was made possible through the warm hospitality of the City of Bacolod and the dedicated organzing team, Ryan Saez and Ervin Mombay, whose efforts ensured a seamless and dynamic experience.

    A special thank you goes to Ms. Gigi Gonza for paving the way for this exciting opportunity and to DJ Mike Ballados for energizing the crowd. Master Chef Carlo Baroa also extends heartfelt appreciation to his assistant, Ashly Duran, for her invaluable support during the workshop.

    With the continued momentum of these vibrant events, Master Chef Carlo Baroa remains dedicated to refining flavors, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the art of culinary fusion. The grind never stops, and the journey toward bold, unforgettable taste experiences pushes forward.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Next Big Chef 2023 Malaysia – a WAMC Supported Event

    Next Big Chef 2023 Malaysia Grand Finale Success!

    In an extraordinary display of culinary excellence, 17 schools from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor showcased their talent and passion at the highly anticipated Next Big Chef 2023 Grand Finale held on September 30, 2023. With a total of 52 participants, the competition was fierce, but the winners emerged triumphant, deserving of every accolade they received.

    Claiming the coveted title of CHAMPION, Confucian Private Secondary School displayed an exceptional culinary prowess that left judges and spectators in awe. Their dedication and hard work paid off as they impressed the panel of esteemed judges with their creativity, technique, and presentation. The students of Confucian Private Secondary School showcased their unwavering commitment and culinary passion, which resonated throughout their dishes.

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    Taking the spot of 1st RUNNER UP were SMK (P) Pudu and SMK Convent Jalan Peel. The judges were captivated by their innovative approaches to traditional recipes, blending classic flavors with modern techniques. Their ability to harmonize different elements and create unique and memorable dishes placed them among the top contenders in the competition.

    Securing the 2nd RUNNER UP position was SMJK Chong Hwa KL. Their dedication to perfection and attention to detail were evident in every dish they presented. From meticulously crafted desserts to intricately constructed main courses, SMJK Chong Hwa KL displayed a depth of skill and creativity that impressed the judges and distinguished them in the competition.

    In addition to the top three winners, seven consolation prizes were awarded to schools that demonstrated exceptional talent and promise. These schools showcased their culinary abilities with unrivaled enthusiasm, proving that the future of gastronomy is in good hands.

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    The success achieved by these schools at the Next Big Chef 2023 Grand Finale serves as a testament to their passion, hard work, and determination. It is a moment of immense pride not just for the winners, but for their institutions and the culinary community as a whole. This victory is a stepping stone towards greater accomplishments in gastronomy and a shining example for aspiring young chefs.

    The Next Big Chef competition provides a platform for young culinary enthusiasts to showcase their skills and passion for the culinary arts. It nurtures the next generation of chefs, giving them an opportunity to gain invaluable experience, receive guidance from industry professionals, and garner recognition for their talent.

    The level of competition witnessed at the Next Big Chef 2023 Grand Finale was nothing short of extraordinary. Each participant demonstrated a deep understanding of ingredients, flavors, and techniques, pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation. The dedication these young chefs have shown is a testament to their perseverance and their unwavering love for the culinary arts.

          

    With a strong emphasis on culinary excellence, the Next Big Chef competition aims to inspire and empower young individuals interested in pursuing a career in the culinary world. By providing a platform for these budding chefs to showcase their skills, the competition not only celebrates their accomplishments but also encourages others to follow their passion.

    The Next Big Chef 2023 Grand Finale was a celebration of talent, passion, and culinary artistry. It highlighted the remarkable achievements of each school and demonstrated the boundless potential of young chefs in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor. As these talented individuals continue to pursue their dreams, the world of gastronomy can look forward to witnessing their remarkable contributions and creations.

    This event was sponsored by:

    • Lee Kum Kee
    • Kewpie Malaysia
    • Bestari
    • PrimaFlour
    • QWARE
    • Avena
    • Sunbell

    The Event is backed by the World Association of Master Chefs, with Chef Carlo Baroa, the WAMC Global Director for Organizational Development, traveling from the Philippines to serve as the Chief Judge for this occasion.

    Congratulations once again to all the winners and participants of the Next Big Chef 2023 Grand Finale. Your dedication, passion, and culinary prowess have set a new standard for excellence in the culinary industry. May this victory serve as a launchpad for even greater achievements in the future, and may you continue to inspire and delight the world with your culinary creations.

       

    Photo Credits to: UCSI University Team

  • The first ever “Kadaugan sa Mactan” Culinary Competition!

    The first ever “Kadaugan sa Mactan” Culinary Competition!

     

    The World Association of Master Chefs – Philippine Chapter in Partnership and Co Presented with the City of Lapu Lapu and Lapu Lapu City Tourism, Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission
    Brings you; The first ever “Kadaugan sa Mactan” Culinary Competition! With the theme: “Modern Visayas Cuisine” Open to all Professionals, Students and Community Based Categories.
    To Register please click the link below⬇️

  • Flavors of the Philippines

    The cuisine of the Philippines is a unique blend of flavors and ingredients that reflect the country’s rich cultural heritage. With influences from Spain, China, and Southeast Asia, Filipino cuisine is a complex fusion of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy tastes that are sure to tantalize the taste buds of food lovers.

    One of the staples of Filipino cuisine is rice, which is often served with a variety of dishes. Adobo is one such dish, which features meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and other spices before being stewed. The result is a flavorful and tender dish that is a beloved favorite among Filipinos.

    Another popular dish is sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind, tomato, and other vegetables, and can feature a variety of meats, such as pork, beef, or fish. The sourness of the soup is balanced with a sweet and savory flavor that makes it an instant hit among locals and visitors alike.

    Filipino cuisine is also known for its array of street food, which is popular among locals and tourists alike. One of the most popular street foods is balut, a fertilized duck egg that is boiled and eaten whole. It might sound strange, but balut is a beloved Filipino delicacy that has been enjoyed for generations.

    Aside from its savory dishes, the Philippines is also famous for its sweet treats. Halo-halo is a popular dessert that features shaved ice, sweetened beans, fruit, and other sweet ingredients, all topped with evaporated milk and ice cream. Another sweet favorite is bibingka, a rice cake that is often served during the Christmas season and is typically topped with butter, cheese, and salted egg.

    In conclusion, Filipino cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors and ingredients that reflects the country’s diverse cultural influences. From savory dishes like adobo and sinigang to sweet treats like halo-halo and bibingka, the cuisine of the Philippines is sure to satisfy any food lover’s cravings. So the next time you’re looking for a culinary adventure, consider exploring the wonderful world of Filipino cuisine.