The University of San Agustin (USA), through its College of Business, proudly represented the Philippines at the World Food Competition 2026, held on 10–13 March 2026 in Kolkata, India, where Allen Jay Gabasa, a third-year Hospitality Management student, earned 1st Runner-Up in the Fruit Carving Competition.
Gabasa competed against four other international participants in the fruit carving category and impressed the judges with his intricately carved fruit display that showcased creativity, precision, and technical artistry. His achievement highlights the excellence of Filipino culinary talent on the global stage.
Representing the Hospitality Management Program of the University of San Agustin were:
- Allen Jay Gabasa – Fruit Carving
- Leo Bros Campos – Mocktail and Cocktail
- Assistant Professor Menard Tandug – Cake Icing Competition and International Chef’s Competition
The delegation was guided by their Faculty Adviser, Dr. Kathryn Gwyneth Aman, who provided mentorship and support throughout the competition.
For his competition piece, Gabasa drew inspiration from the flora and fauna of Iloilo City, incorporating designs of plants and animals carved into fruits to reflect the natural beauty and rich culture of the Philippines.
The World Food Competition 2026 gathered chefs, culinary artists, and food enthusiasts from around the world, providing a platform to showcase innovation and skill across multiple culinary categories. The fruit carving segment emphasizes the artistic transformation of fruits and vegetables into detailed sculptures, combining culinary technique with visual artistry.
Gabasa’s achievement highlights the creativity, dedication, and global potential of Augustinian student chefs, further strengthening the University of San Agustin’s presence in the international culinary and hospitality arena while showcasing Filipino talent on the world stage.
