Two 国产吃瓜黑料一区二区College of Tourism and Hospitality Management students, Mr. Louis Anjello Cheng of class 3HHL1 and Ms. Samantha Dominique Pineda of class 1H6, competed with representatives of different schools at the 2024 Whiskey Live Manila held at Shangri-La the Fort, Bonifacio Global City from November 8 to 9, 2024.
The first night required each student, mentored by an industry coach, to prepare 40 servings of an original cocktail using Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky. From there, only the top three advanced to the championship round the following night. Among those who made the cut was Mr. Cheng alongside other finalists from Pamantasang Lungsod ng Marikina (PLMar) and Enderun Colleges.
For the Championship Title held on the second night, Cheng emerged as the 2024 Whiskey Live Manila Champion.
Each student-mentor pair was given the task to prepare an original cocktail good for 50 servings within 16 hours still using Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky. The drinks must be inspired by a story, must taste savory, and must adhere to zero waste or sustainability principles.
Cheng, alongside his industry mentor, Mr. Leonard Albao of Big Fuzz, came up with the drink called 鈥�Ikigai,鈥� named after the Japanese concept of finding one鈥檚 purpose. Cheng shared his own story of how he found his Ikigai through the industry, experiencing the magic of when customers truly appreciate what one serves.
