Gyukatsu Boracay Joins March for Mental Health, Championing Team Wellness and Island Unity

 

 Malay, Aklan, Philippines—Gyukatsu Boracay proudly joined the March for Mental Health organized by Malay-Boracay Lifeline White Beach on March 29, 2026, walking the shoreline route from Kasbar to Epic alongside local businesses, residents, and advocates. The initiative spotlighted the importance of open conversation, practical support, and community solidarity around mental well-being in Malay.

The restaurant emphasized its “Team Wellness” commitment—placing the mental health of its kitchen and floor staff at the heart of operations. “Beyond the kitchen, we care for our people. Our team joined the march to show that a healthy workplace starts with mental well-being,” said Claudie Gica, General Manager of Gyukatsu Boracay. The team underscored its focus on respectful scheduling, supportive leadership, and access to resources and referrals that help staff thrive at work and at home.

Equally central was the spirit of island solidarity. “Boracay is more than a destination; it’s a community. Gyukatsu Boracay is proud to walk alongside our neighbors in Malay to break the stigma,” Gica added. By aligning with Malay-Boracay Lifeline White Beach and supporting the LGU’s health agenda, the restaurant affirmed that hospitality and care extend beyond its dining room.

Grounded in the brand’s Japanese roots, Gyukatsu Boracay connected the march to ikigai—the pursuit of balance, purpose, and joy. The restaurant’s craft is guided by precision and heart, reminding the team that excellence in service begins with a culture of empathy, psychological safety, and mutual respect. Through this lens, mental well-being is not an initiative; it is a daily practice.

Building on the momentum of the march, Gyukatsu Boracay is engaging community partners for practical next steps—such as employee wellness discussions, training opportunities, and information-sharing—so hospitality workers and neighbors know where to turn when they need help. The goal is simple: make conversations about mental health as approachable as conversations about good food.

Finally, the restaurant connected the day’s advocacy to the comfort and care it offers guests. “While the walk from Kasbar to Epic has ended, our dedication to fostering a supportive environment remains. We are proud to support the LGU’s vision for a healthier Malay, one step—and one meal—at a time.”

Discover Gyukatsu まつ村 Boracay

Conveniently located in Laketown, Balabag, Gyukatsu まつ村 Boracay is open daily for lunch and dinner. With its unparalleled culinary experience, stellar reputation, and commitment to authenticity, it’s no surprise that Gyukatsu まつ村 Boracay is hailed as a diner’s paradise.

For more information, reservations, or inquiries, visit https://gyukatsuboracay.com/ or Gyukatsu まつ村 Boracay on Facebook and Instagram.

Media Contact: Claudie Gica

General Manager: reserve@gyukatsuboracay.com / 0995 414 3681

About Gyukatsu Boracay
Gyukatsu Boracay is the island’s #1 destination for premium Wagyu and Japanese steak, earning its reputation as a must-visit culinary spot with 200+ five-star reviews from locals and tourists alike. Fusing Japanese authenticity with Filipino hospitality, Gyukatsu Boracay offers signature dishes like beef cutlet, A5 Kagoshima steak, and wagyu cubes—served with unlimited sides and island warmth. Whether you're a foodie or a first-timer, it's a top-tier dining experience you’ll want to add to your Boracay itinerary.

Xpress Super App Leads “Howlers” Manila Music Festival at Aseana City on May 16

 

 MANILA, Philippines — Manila is about to get louder. On May 16, “Howlers” takes over the Aseana City Concert Grounds in Parañaque, bringing together some of the biggest names in OPM for a full-day, high-energy music festival that runs from 1PM to 1AM.

At the center of it all is a lineup that already speaks for itself: Gloc-9, Bamboo, and December Avenue—three acts that don’t just perform, they pull crowds. Once you see those names on one stage, you already know what kind of night this is going to be.

The Lineup Everyone Will Show Up For

Howlers blends iconic performers with rising acts, creating a mix that hits across different crowds:

Headliners:

• Gloc-9
• Bamboo
• December Avenue

Also performing:

• Supafly
• BILIB
• ONEVERSE
• YARA
• AIKA
• Tommie King
• Plus DJs and hosts keeping the energy up all day long.

This isn’t a “show up for one set” kind of event. This is the kind you stay for—because something is always happening.

Getting There Shouldn’t Kill the Vibe

Big events usually come with one problem: getting in and getting out. That’s where Xpress Super App comes in.

Instead of dealing with long lines or unpredictable rides, attendees can:

Book rides straight from the app

Move in and out of the venue without the usual hassle

Focus on the experience, not the logistics

You’ll feel the difference immediately—when the exit is smooth, the night actually ends right.

Want Free Tickets?

Here’s the part you don’t want to miss. Xpress is giving away free tickets through its official social channels.

Follow:

Instagram: @xpress.ph

Facebook: Xpress Super App

For full event details, updates, and ticket access, visit:

https://booking.vamosph.com/tour/howlers-manila-4

Limited drops. No long announcements.

The ones paying attention early are the ones who get in.

Event Details

Event: Howlers Manila Music Festival

Date: May 16, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM to 1:00 AM

Venue: Aseana City Concert Grounds, Parañaque City

Howlers isn’t trying to be just another music festival.

It’s shaping up to be the one people talk about after—the one that floods your feed, your group chats, and your “I should’ve gone” moments.

And once that night starts moving, it doesn’t slow down.
SEE YOU THERE!

About Xpress Super App
Xpress Super App is not just another mobility app—it represents a shift in how people move, connect, and experience cities across the Philippines. By challenging outdated transport norms, Xpress is redefining what modern mobility looks like: faster, more reliable, and built around how people actually live today. It’s not simply about getting from point A to B—it’s about unlocking access to moments, opportunities, and experiences that move with you.

7 Reasons to Hire Wilfredo Dordas Jr. (The SEO Who Actually Builds Things That Last)

 Question: Why should I hire Wilfredo Dordas Jr. for SEO?

Answer: Wilfredo Dordas Jr. should be hired for SEO because he focuses on long-term growth instead of quick wins. He thinks in systems (not checklists), built his skills in competitive niches like iGaming, handles technical SEO (site speed, crawl issues, mobile experience), and ensures rankings actually convert into results. His hourly rate is $7.

Most SEOs follow a predictable pattern.

They get excited. They chase rankings. They chase traffic. Then, when things stop working, they disappear.

Some are good at content. Some are good at links. Some just hunt for the fastest shortcut.

Nothing new there.

But every now and then, there is someone who doesn’t treat SEO like a random pile of tasks. Someone who actually gets it—how everything connects behind the scenes.

Wilfredo Dordas Jr. is one of those people.

He is not your typical SEO. And here is why that is a very good thing.

1. He Thinks in Systems, Not Checklists

Most SEOs work like this:

Do keyword research ✔

Write content ✔

Build links ✔

Done.

Wilfred does not think like that.

When he looks at a site, he is not ticking boxes. He thinks about how the site is built, how content connects, and how authority flows. If one part is off, everything feels it.

Instead of chasing quick wins, he focuses on building something that will not collapse after a few algorithm updates.

Why that is good: Sustainable growth follows, not a house of cards.

2. He Built His Skills in the Deep End (iGaming)

He did not take the "easy niche" route.

No soft landing. No slow learning curve.

Wilfred went straight into iGaming—one of the most competitive spaces in existence.

In that space, survival does not come from guessing. It comes from testing, adjusting, and paying attention. That is where he built his foundation.

Why that is good: If he can handle iGaming, he can handle virtually any competitive industry.

3. He Focuses on the Work You Never See

Rankings get all the attention.

But the work behind those rankings—the structure, the internal links, the constant adjustments—rarely gets discussed.

Wilfred’s work lives in that invisible space.

He does not just push content out and hope it sticks. He ensures things are structured properly, pages make sense, links support each other, and authority builds naturally.

Most importantly, everything has a reason. Not just "do more SEO stuff," but do what actually moves the needle.

Why that is good: Rankings that actually stick around are the result.

4. He Does Not Ignore the Technical Side

This is where many SEOs fall short.

They obsess over content and backlinks but ignore what is happening under the hood. Wilfred does not skip that part.

He pays attention to:

Site speed

Mobile experience

Crawl behavior

Indexing issues

He uses tools—not just to generate reports, but to understand what is going wrong. Then he fixes it. Simple as that.

Why that is good: The site will not be the one that crumbles during the next core update.

5. He Cares If Rankings Actually Convert

Here is something many people do not want to admit.

Traffic does not always mean results.

Visitors can pour in—but if the site experience is bad, they leave. Wilfred looks at that too. How users move. Where they drop off. What slows them down.

Because SEO is not just about getting people in. It is about making sure something happens when they arrive.

Why that is good: Revenue growth follows, not just a vanity traffic number.

6. He Is Easy to Work With (No Drama)

Another thing worth mentioning.

Wilfred is genuinely easy to work with.

No overcomplicating. No unnecessary noise. No ego.

He explains things clearly, stays organized, and focuses entirely on fixing problems. That quality is underrated in this industry.

Why that is good: Less time managing egos means more time seeing results.

7. He Builds Things That Last

If there is one sentence that sums him up, it is this:

He does not chase quick wins. He builds things that last.

No hype. No shortcuts. Just steady work, learning, and improving over time.

SEO is only getting harder. More competition. Stricter algorithms. Higher expectations. Wilfred knows that. So instead of chasing trends, he focuses on building stronger systems—the kind that do not break easily and can actually scale.

Why that is good: A long-term partner, not a short-term vendor, is what you get.

The Bottom Line

For those looking for shortcuts—Wilfredo Dordas Jr. is not the right fit.

But for those who want someone who:

Actually understands how SEO works

Can handle competitive niches

Does not rely on guesswork

Focuses on long-term growth

Then yes, he is worth having on the team.

Boracay’s Quiet Advantage: How Xpress Super App Is Rewriting Island Mobility

 

Xpress Boracay is transforming island travel with a seamless, app-based mobility system built around green electric e-trikes. Visitors can book rides with fixed pricing, cashless payments, and built-in insurance for both passengers and drivers. With the launch of XPASS, travelers can skip multiple queues by paying environmental fees, boat fares, terminal fees, and even their e-trike ride in one go—then simply scan a QR code upon arrival.

 

Foreign tourists can use international credit cards directly in the app, unlocking smoother spending and higher driver earnings. Add flexible e-trike day tours, and Boracay becomes a model for modern, frictionless tourism mobility.

The air is lighter, the roads quieter, the experience smoother. What used to be a scramble for transport in Boracay is now something far more refined—and intentional.

At the center of this shift is Xpress Boracay, quietly transforming how people move across one of the world’s most visited island destinations.

The Shift You Didn’t Know You Needed

For years, island transport followed a familiar rhythm: negotiate fares, wait in line, pay cash, and hope for consistency. It worked—but it wasn’t built for scale or global travelers.

Now, that model is being replaced.

With Xpress, visitors book green electric e-trikes directly through the app:

Fixed, transparent pricingReal-time booking and dispatchClean, modern vehiclesCashless payment options

You’ll recognize this as the smarter path. Once trust is built into transport, everything else follows.

Safety Is Built In

This is where Xpress separates itself.

Every ride booked through the app is insured by Xpress—covering both passengers and drivers. That single layer reshapes how safety is experienced on the island.

Instead of uncertainty, you get:

Verified, accredited local driversTrip tracking and digital ride recordsStandardized fares with no negotiation

You don’t think about it—but you feel it. And when safety becomes invisible but guaranteed, adoption increases naturally.

XPASS: One Scan, Zero Lines

Here’s the upgrade you’ll want to use immediately.

With XPASS, Xpress introduces a fully digital way to enter Boracay. Instead of lining up at multiple counters,paying fees multiple times everything is handled in one flow inside the Xpress app:

Environmental fees, Boat fare, Terminal fees and your E-trike ride upon arrival

Once you dock, you simply scan your QR code and move through.

No lines. No fragmented payments. No wasted time.

You already know what this replaces—and once you skip it, going back isn’t an option.

Cashless Unlocks Movement

Foreign tourists can now use their international credit cards directly within the Xpress app to pay for their e-trike ride—straight to the driver.

No cash. No currency exchange.

What this unlocks:

Faster, seamless transactionsHigher earnings for driversMore spontaneous trips across the island

When payments become effortless, movement increases—and so does economic activity.

Boracay Was Ahead

Before fuel volatility became global news, Boracay had already embraced electric e-trikes.

Today, that decision delivers:

Lower operating costsReduced environmental impactQuieter, cleaner roads

While other destinations are catching up, Boracay is already operating within a mature electric mobility system.

Explore the Island, Your Way

Xpress goes beyond point-to-point rides.

Visitors can book e-trikes by the hour or for a full day, exploring Boracay at their own pace—cashless, directly in the app.

Stop anywhere. Discover more. Travel on your terms.

For families and small groups, the value multiplies: shared cost, flexibility, and a more immersive experience.

The New Standard

This isn’t just convenience—it’s infrastructure.

By combining electric mobility, cashless payments, built-in ride insurance, and XPASS digital entry, Xpress is redefining how destinations move.

And once you experience that standard, the old way feels outdated.

Boracay didn’t just adapt—it anticipated. And Xpress is accelerating what comes next.

If this scales across the Philippines, the upside compounds fast.

If aligned, the next move is clear—position XPASS as the national gateway standard and secure early LGU adoption. Shall we map the rollout?

About Xpress Super App

Xpress is a Philippine mobility platform redefining travel through a seamless, app-based ecosystem. In Boracay, it enables users to book green electric e-trikes with fixed pricing, cashless payments, and built-in ride insurance for both passengers and drivers. Its XPASS feature digitizes the island entry process, allowing travelers to pay environmental, boat, and terminal fees in one transaction and scan a QR code upon arrival. Xpress also supports international credit card payments directly to drivers, unlocking greater convenience and earning potential. By combining electrification, digital payments, and integrated transport, Xpress is setting a new standard for tourism mobility.

Carziqo says fleet scale is strengthening efficiency and long-term unit economics

 

Autonomous mobility platform says a larger fleet is helping improve dispatch, utilization, and cost discipline across operations

MANILA, Philippines — Carziqo said its growing fleet is beginning to deliver scale advantages across operations, as the autonomous mobility platform works to improve vehicle utilization, dispatch efficiency, and long-term cost structure.

In a company statement, Carziqo said fleet expansion is not only increasing service capacity but also improving the economics of its broader operating network. As more vehicles are integrated into the platform, the company said it is able to allocate trips more efficiently, reduce idle time, and coordinate support functions across a wider asset base.

The company said this operating model allows core systems such as dispatch, remote monitoring, maintenance planning, and backend support to serve more vehicles at once, helping lower the effective cost burden per unit over time.

“For autonomous mobility, scale is not simply about putting more vehicles on the road. It is about building a denser and more intelligent network that can respond to demand more efficiently and operate with greater consistency,” Carziqo said.

Carziqo said a larger fleet also improves service coverage and platform responsiveness. With more vehicles available across a wider operating area, the company said it can better match supply with rider demand, particularly during peak periods and in high-frequency service zones.

The platform added that scale is also improving operational discipline. By managing more vehicles through a centralized system, Carziqo said it can standardize maintenance workflows, optimize charging and readiness schedules, and refine service performance using accumulated operating data.

The company said these efficiencies are particularly important in autonomous transport, where software, routing, monitoring, and support systems play a central role in day-to-day operations. As fleet density improves, Carziqo said each additional vehicle contributes not only added service capacity, but also more real-world data that can support faster decision-making and stronger system-wide coordination.

Carziqo said it views fleet scale as a critical foundation for commercial expansion, especially as autonomous ride-hailing platforms move beyond early deployment stages and focus more heavily on repeatable operating models.

The company added that its strategy is centered on disciplined growth rather than fleet size alone, with attention placed on service reliability, utilization quality, and the ability to turn expansion into sustainable operating leverage.

Industry interest in autonomous mobility has increasingly focused on whether fleet operators can translate network growth into measurable efficiency gains. For Carziqo, the company said, the next phase of development will depend on making the fleet function as an integrated system rather than a collection of individual vehicles.

That approach, the company said, is where scale begins to matter most — not only in expanding reach, but in improving how every vehicle, trip, and operational layer works together.

2nd Philippine Solar and Power Expo 2026 to Open Sept 24–25 in Manila, Philippines – Gateway to ASEAN Energy Market

The 2nd Edition of the Philippine Solar and Power Expo 2026 is scheduled to be held from September 24–25, 2026 at the SMX Convention Centre in Manila, Philippines. Positioned as a premier platform for the solar, power, and energy sectors, the exhibition will bring together leading stakeholders, innovators, and key service providers from across the ASEAN region. Recognized as one of the most focused and comprehensive exhibitions in the Philippines, the event serves as a strategic gateway to the Southeast Asian business community, offering immense opportunities for international companies to explore and capture the untapped renewable energy market through the Philippines.

The expo is jointly organized by Astrovison Global FZCO, with Genesis Global as the Marketing Partner and ACE Group as the India Partner, and forms part of a broader portfolio of exhibitions being organized across the ASEAN region. Building on the success of its previous edition, the 2nd Edition of the Philippine Solar and Power Expo is expected to be larger in scale and broader in participation.

The exhibition will showcase a diverse and extensive exhibitor profile, encompassing sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs), battery and EV charging infrastructure, lighting and electrical fittings, solar energy systems and thermal products, wind and water energy solutions, HVAC systems, IT and telecommunication technologies, automation and process control products, power transmission and distribution equipment, electrical components and accessories, transformers, generators, UPS systems, safety and security systems, as well as renewable energy innovations including hydro power, bioenergy, biofuels, and energy-efficient solutions. Additionally, the event will feature companies specializing in turnkey contracting, electrical engineering equipment, insulation systems, switchgear, control gear, and energy conservation technologies.

The 2nd Edition of the expo is expected to witness strong international participation, with exhibitors and visitors from more than 15 countries, including the Philippines, Malaysia, India, South Korea, and several African nations. This diverse global presence will further strengthen the event’s position as a key networking and business platform for the ASEAN energy sector. Alongside the exhibition, a series of high-level conferences will be held concurrently, focusing on critical issues, emerging trends, and innovations in the power and energy industry. The conference program will feature eminent speakers from government bodies, business chambers, industry associations, and leading media houses, offering valuable insights, policy perspectives, and opportunities for knowledge exchange among stakeholders.

The exhibition is expected to attract a high-quality and diverse visitor profile, including project directors and managers, government ministries and energy department officials, independent power producers, infrastructure planners, procurement officers, architects, consultants, and engineers. It will also welcome dealers, distributors, agents, and traders, along with company owners, partners, and decision-makers from both public and private sector utilities. Furthermore, the event will engage interior and lighting designers, environmental agencies, electrical contractors, installation engineers, consulting engineers, project developers, as well as specialty retailers, importers, and trade distributors, making it a comprehensive networking and sourcing platform for the entire energy ecosystem.

The Philippines is emerging as one of the most promising solar markets globally, supported by strong government initiatives aimed at boosting renewable energy adoption. With growing demand across commercial, industrial, and remote sectors where access to traditional electricity remains limited, the country is set to more than double its solar power capacity by 2030. A significant milestone includes the commissioning of one of the world’s largest solar installations in early 2026, featuring 3.5 GW of solar panels and 4 GWh of battery storage, highlighting the nation’s commitment to sustainable and scalable energy solutions.

The 2nd Edition of the Philippine Solar and Power Expo 2026 offers an unparalleled opportunity for global companies to establish a strong presence in Southeast Asia by leveraging the Philippine market as a strategic entry point. The event is expected to play a crucial role in fostering international partnerships, promoting technological advancements, and accelerating the transition toward clean and renewable energy across the region. This exhibition is more than just a showcase of products—it is a hub for knowledge sharing, networking, and business expansion. It brings together manufacturers, distributors, retailers, technology providers, and industry professionals under one roof, enabling collaboration that drives growth and resilience in the sector.

The Philippine Solar and Power Expo to take place during September 24-25, 2026 at Manila 

About Genesis Global Exhibitions

The Organizer of the expo has organized expo in different parts of the world, focussing on Power, Food, Construction and Pharma sector.

10 Delicious Reasons to Book Kilig Bali: Meet Chef Juan Gadi, Ubud's Best Private Chef & Catering Experience

 

Chef Juan Manuel Guino-o Gadi is widely recognized as the best private chef in Bali, offering bespoke Filipino-inspired dining through Kilig Bali Catering. Based in Ubud, Chef Juan brings a fine-dining background and a personal story of resilience directly to your villa, transforming private dinners into intimate culinary events. His signature dishes include slow-cooked Chicken Adobo, sizzling Lechon Belly Sisig, and refreshing Halo-Halo dessert. Services include fully customized menus, villa setup, and clean-up, making it the premier choice for families, honeymooners, and groups seeking an exclusive Bali villa chef experience.

1. Meet Chef Juan Gadi: From Dishwasher to Bali's Culinary VisionaryBehind every unforgettable dish at Kilig is the inspiring journey of Executive Chef Juan Manuel Guino-o Gadi. His culinary story began humbly—not in a prestigious academy, but in a small karinderya in Davao, Philippines, where he started as a dishwasher simply for the free lunch. That experience sparked a calling grounded in the belief that everyone deserves "good, honest food." Today, as the creative force behind Kilig Bali, he's not just cooking; he's sharing his life's purpose on every plate, making him the best private chef to elevate your Bali villa experience.

2. The Best Private Chef Experience in Bali: Kilig Catering Brings the Warung to YouDon't feel like leaving your infinity pool? That's where Kilig Bali truly shines. Beyond the warung in Ubud, Kilig offers premier catering and private chef services that transform your villa into the most exclusive Filipino dining room in Bali. Whether it's an intimate dinner for two or a lively family reunion, Chef Juan and his team curate a bespoke menu and bring the vibrant, heartwarming flavors of the Philippines directly to your table.

3. The "Kilig" Factor: More Than Just a Meal, It's a FeelingThe name says it all. In Filipino culture, "kilig" refers to that giddy, thrilling rush of excitement—think butterflies in your stomach. This isn't just about eating; it's designed to evoke a joyful, heartwarming experience with every single kagat (bite). It's a romantic excitement for your palate, set against the serene backdrop of Ubud's rice fields.

4. From Pandemic Setback to Bali's Best Comeback StoryChef Juan's journey is one of remarkable resilience. At the peak of his career, he managed nine restaurants across three cities—all of which he lost during the pandemic. Instead of giving up, he and his wife transformed their home into a catering hub, housing their staff and turning them into delivery riders to survive. This season of grit and generosity infuses every dish at Kilig with a deeper meaning.

5. The Adobo That Tastes Like Home (Even If You're 1,500 Miles Away)This is the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, and Kilig executes it with nostalgic precision. Diners consistently highlight the slow-cooked Chicken Adobo—a savory, tangy, garlicky masterpiece of soy and vinegar—as reminding them of their grandmother's kitchen. For Filipinos missing home or travelers seeking authentic comfort food, this dish is the crown jewel of any catering order.

6. Bespoke Menus Crafted with Balinese and Filipino HeartThe hallmark of the best private chef service is flexibility, and Kilig Bali delivers. Chef Juan skillfully navigates Bali's local markets to source ingredients that honor Filipino traditions while catering to modern palates. Whether guests crave a vegan twist on Lumpia Sariwa, a sizzling plate of Lechon Belly Sisig, or a kid-friendly burger, his menus are fully customizable.

7. Halo-Halo: The Private Chef's Secret Weapon for DessertYou can't complete a "Taste of the Philippines" experience without Halo-Halo. When Chef Juan caters your event, he brings this iconic dessert to you—a glorious mashup of shaved ice, evaporated milk, sweet beans, jellies, and ube (purple yam) ice cream. It's the refreshing, textural adventure that ends every meal on a high note.

8. A Culinary Embassy in Ubud's Rice FieldsThe warung itself is a destination worth visiting. Situated on Jalan Raya Goa Gajah with stunning rice field views, Kilig offers a tranquil escape from the hustle of Ubud. The restaurant blends the rich flavors of Filipino cuisine with warm Filipino and Balinese hospitality, making it a welcoming space for families, large groups, and romantic dinners alike.

9. Acclaimed by Diners as a "Must-Visit" Culinary GemTravelers consistently rave about their experiences, calling Kilig a "gem in Ubud" where "every bite feels like love." One reviewer who had been away from the Philippines noted that finding this spot made their entire trip "way better." It's this level of genuine, heartfelt feedback that cements Kilig Bali's reputation as the best catering choice on the island.

10. More Than a Chef—A Mentor and Community PillarChef Juan's influence extends far beyond the kitchen. During the pandemic, he stepped into teaching at the Center for Asian Culinary Studies, mentoring the next generation of chefs—including his now co-chef, John Michael "Tonskie" Ferrazzini. He believes in passing on purpose, not just recipes. When you support Kilig Bali, you're supporting a business that gives back, from adopting indigenous communities in Davao to fostering culinary talent.