Naturally “Organic” - A Philippines Way Of Life

It's just different in the countrysides of the Philippines. Juicy and vibrant fruits abundantly growing in the front yards. They don't know what "organic" produce is because that's what nature is. There are actually many pests but no one bothers them. On this bunch of rambutan and all the other fruits there were ants crawling all over it. But they just get dusted or wiped off to the ground.

Yes, some go bad, and some get swarmed with bugs, usually the ones that fell to the floor. But the thing is, there is enough for everyone.

Paired with the food is community. There is no isolation but continuous fellowship and love.

A lot of my menus don't showcase Filipino food, but I realized it's not just the cuisine itself that make my chef services Filipino. It's the warmth, infectious joy and overwhelming hospitality that are in the heart and are the heart of how we work and how we serve. It's the tenacity and standard of excellence and beauty.

I love the techniques I learned working professionally and in school. But the heart and strength - it just runs through my blood.

A photo of my family member holding fresh rambutan from my Lola’s farm in Mindanao, Philippines. There were ants crawling all over it but she kindly brushed them off for me so I could eat it.