City of Dreams Manila underscored its reputation as a premier dining destination after its team of chefs and mixologists garnered 11 medals across eight categories at the 2025 Philippine Culinary Cup (PCC), the country’s most prestigious culinary competition.

Now on its 15th year, the PCC was held alongside the World Food Expo (WOFEX) at the SMX Convention Center.

“Every year, our team has been consistently awarded at the Philippine Culinary Cup, a testament to the depth of their culinary artistry and mastery. We commend their passion for excellence as they help steer and inspire colleagues in positioning City of Dreams Manila as one of the sought-after dining destinations in the city,” said Property President Geoff Andres.

 The winners from various categories are:

Gold: Mary Anne Valderrama (Café Society) – Chocolate Pastry Showpiece; and, Lee Chia Lok (Season 88) – Taiwan Pork Bento (also Silver in US Pork Asian Gourmet Chef Challenge)

Silver: Dominic Joshua Hembrador (Pastry) – Wedding Cakes; Mary Apple Delantar (Pastry) – Wedding Cakes; Paul John Zuniega (Pastry) – Bread Showpiece; Allan Mabras (Pastry) – Chocolate Pastry Showpiece; and, Jiro Flora (Haliya) – Canada Beef “Back to Basics”

Bronze: She Chong Ngooi (Crystal Dragon) – Taiwan Pork Bento Box

Bartending Awards:  Arvin Philip Rallos (CenterPlay) – Champion, Flairtending; and, Prince Reinner Santos (CenterPlay) – 2nd Place, Best in Cocktail

The Philippine Culinary Cup is the only local competition endorsed by the World Association of Chefs’ Societies (WORLDCHEFS), ensuring international standards in judging. Over the years, the PCC has provided Filipino chefs with a globally recognized platform to hone and showcase their talents, further elevating the country’s culinary scene.