World Food Expo in Cebu

By Chef Ed Dychauco

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

ONCE again, I was invited to conduct a couple of culinary demonstrations during the World Food Expo-Visayas (Wofex) 2011 held recently at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC). This was my very first out-of-town demo for the year and I should say it was exciting as ever.

Last year, I also played an active part in the 3 Wofez's activities (Cebu for Visayas, Davao for Mindanao and at the World Trade Center in Manila) as a culinary demonstrator and as a guest judge in the regional and national Barista Competition sponsored by Equilibrium Intertrade (distributor of Torani Syrups).

This year's event were participated by both local and national companies that include machineries, packaging materials, ingredients for food and bakeries, local delicacies and several "health" products from Taiwan ranging from massager to medicinal soaps and ointments, cutters, knives and many other exciting new products.

My first culinary demonstration was held on the first day, right after the opening ceremonies. It was entitled "Simply Pasta...an easy primer to a complete meal using basic and readily available ingredients in the market."

I did six recipes with a few focused on seafoods in time for the Lenten season.

The second demonstration was held on the second day and this time, I made use of fresh fruits in main courses or meals. Special mention to Global Pacific for their support in my demonstration: cheese, butter and cream! It was delicious!

Incidentally, they also had a booth during the expo where lots of people enjoyed their "free-flowing" Beryl's chocolate fondue! And of course, to Mr. Lindel for being my "sidekick" during those two demonstrations.

Penk Ching did a Cake Decorating demonstration on the third day of the exhibit, while Chef James Antolin talked on preparation in joining a culinary competition. Several other Chefs from Cebu also showcased their recipes.

The event lasted for four days and several trade people from neighboring towns and cities were present to attend the seminars, lectures and demonstration and of course, getting around the venue for all the equipment and gadgets. I personally met and made new contacts with several suppliers and individuals who are into the food industry.

I would like to thank Joel Pascual, president of Premier Events Plus Group, together with his staff and Chef James Antolin at the Light House Restaurant for a wonderful dinner.

And since Park Mall is just across the street, I get to check out the place. It is always nice to go "window" shopping, although shopping is a lot better! I was thinking of my "excess" baggage, paying more for items which is not practical. Anyway, I had feasted my eyes on what is new and what is available and that is more than enough.

I got to stay at Pier Cuatro Hotel for two nights courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Rod Ngo who insisted that I spend a few nights there. Rod was a "dorm-mate" during college and we got to meet only last year, after more than 30 years! Good thing he went to the expo!

The hotel was very spacious and clean with very accommodating and hospitable staff. I didn't get to ask their rates, but I was told it is very affordable. It has more than 80 rooms total and an "eat-all-you-can" breakfast of scrambled eggs, native chorizo, crispy fried danggit, sweet ham, rice, fresh fruits, juice and coffee is inclusive! What a breakfast!

My trip to Cebu won't be complete without visiting my Ninong Samson Ong and his family. Kumpare Dave was always there to show me around. It was only during this trip that I had the chance to stroll around the "food" area of Ayala. And I realized we don't have even a third of the food establishments here compared to Cebu! And I am just talking about one mall!

Because of time constraints, I just have to call two of my co-teachers who are now based in Cebu City, namely: Emma Amores and Ida Santiago. I just have to see Cora because my friend Diody from New York City, who is her sister, left a box of Chocolate Truffles a week ago for me. Cora looks a lot like Diody and I would say, well, they are sisters aren't they?

Coming back after five days in Cebu was refreshing. It was a much needed "vacation."

By the way, Wofex Mindanao will be held in Cagayan de Oro at the Atrium of Limketkai Mall on June 8 to 11, 2011.

See you there for another exciting food and beverage exposition!

(Email: potsnpans1976@yahoo.com; website: www.potsnpans1976.weebly.com)

Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper on April 28, 2011.