A Former Filipino Seafarer Won Michelin Award-Francis Lacson

A former seafarer just won a Michelin award, and he says he was once held hostage.

On October 29, Michelin named Francis Lacson its Young Chef at its Manila ceremony. He cooks at Digámo, a fourteen-seat restaurant in Marikina.

He went to sea at seventeen, because an uncle inspired him. On his last contract, he says, he was held hostage in Colombia. That was the turning point. "I could actually die anytime," he says, so he left the sea and started cooking.

But cooking wasn't new to him. He comes from a family of cooks in Capiz, and as a boy he helped them cook for town fiestas.

For years he consulted on Western and Italian restaurants. He says he didn't have a proof of concept for Filipino food, and he kept a notebook called Project Digámo. One page says his goal is to own and run a world-class Filipino restaurant.

Digámo is a Hiligaynon word for preparing a meal. The restaurant is built around the dirty kitchen, which many Filipino homes use as a second kitchen for heavy cooking, and which he calls the heart of Filipino cooking. The first course is a pig's ear and abalone skewer with a dinuguan made without blood. It's made from corn smut, a fungus.

He says Digámo was ten years in the making.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1127848819723446

AI Overview:

A Former Filipino Seafarer Won Michelin Award-Francis Lacson

Chef Francis Lacson of Digámo in Marikina has won the prestigious 2027 MICHELIN Young Chef Award. The announcement was made during the MICHELIN Guide Manila and Environs & Cebu ceremony. 

The Journey: From Sea to Kitchen

Lacson's path to culinary excellence is remarkably unconventional. He began working as a seafarer at just 17 years old. His time at sea included incredibly harrowing experiences, including a terrifying chapter where he was held hostage. 

After leaving life at sea behind to pursue his passion for cooking, he channeled his unique experiences into a distinct culinary identity. Today, he helms the kitchen at Digámo, a contemporary restaurant located in Marikina, Philippines. 

Why He Won

The Michelin Guide recognized Lacson for his:

• Exceptional Talent & Clear Vision: Showing maturity and immense skill early in his culinary career.
• Modern Interpretation of Filipino Food: Honoring local flavors while elevating them through modern techniques and a contemporary approach.

Durian-The King of Fruits- Smell like Hell, But Taste like Heaven

Fresh Durian is often described is a fruit that smell like hell, but taste like heaven.

It is cultivated in Mindanao, Southern Philippines. I have not tasted the fresh fruit itself, But I love the Durian candies, ice cream and jam.

Love it or hate it, the Durian is famous for its powerful aroma, but there’s a scientific reason why it smells so intense!

This tropical "King of Fruits" releases sulfur-like compounds that are chemically similar to those found in onions and even sewage gases.

This unique chemical cocktail is so potent that the scent can linger for days, leading many hotels and public transport systems across Asia to officially ban the fruit from their premises.

Despite the "stink," millions of fans swear by its creamy, custard-like taste, proving that true beauty (and flavor) is often found beneath a very prickly and smelly exterior.

Meanwhile, here's the AI Overview:

The durian, widely known as the "King of Fruits" in Southeast Asia, is a unique tropical fruit, easily recognized by its large size, formidable thorn-covered husk, and intense, pungent odor. Despite its polarising smell—often described as a mix of sulfur, sewage, and sweet fruit—it is beloved for its custard-like, creamy flesh that tastes of sweet garlic and almonds. 

Key Facts About Durian:

• Origin: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Borneo and Sumatra.
• Appearance: Large (up to 30cm), spiky (husk comes from the Malay word duri, meaning "thorn").
• The Smell & Restrictions: Due to its powerful aroma, the fruit is famously banned from many public transportation systems, hotels, and airplanes in Southeast Asia.
• Taste and Texture: Creamy, custard-like texture with a complex, sweet, and savoury flavor.
• Nutritional Value: A "superfood" with high amounts of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and vitamins (especially Vitamin C).
• Varieties: Over 300 named varieties exist in Thailand alone, including popular types like Monthong and Musang King. 

How it's Consumed:
The fruit is usually eaten raw, but it is also used in a variety of Southeast Asian dishes, from traditional desserts (like durian sticky rice) to cendol, ice cream, and even pizzas. The seeds can also be eaten when roasted or cooked. 

Why "King of Fruits"?
It is called the "King of Fruits" because of its distinctive combination of large size, intimidating spiky, "crowned" appearance (a ring of thorns), intense nutritional density, and a devoted, passionate following. 

Here are some of the most affordable destinations in Asia, categorized by 

Meanwhile, here a list of Affordable Countries in Asia for a Vacation:

Vietnam: Considered the best value country in Asia, Vietnam offers a daily budget of $45-55. You can stay in modern hostels with swimming pools for $5-8, or private hotel rooms for $12-15. Enjoy delicious street food like Pho and Banh Mi for $0.80-2.

Laos: This relaxed country offers a daily budget of $40-55, with rock-bottom prices due to currency devaluation. Visit Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city, and enjoy the beautiful Kuang Si Falls.

India: With a daily budget of $20-55, India is one of the cheapest countries in Asia. However, be prepared for crowds and varying hygiene standards. Visit the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, Jaipur) and experience the spiritual city of Varanasi.

Other Affordable Options

Nepal: Enjoy world-class trekking for pennies with a daily budget of $50-70. Stay in local lodges for $3-5 and savor Dal Bhat for $3-5.Indonesia: Explore beyond Bali and discover affordable islands like Java and Sumatra. Enjoy volcanoes, beaches, and culture for $30-65 per day.

Sri Lanka: This island nation offers great value with a daily budget of $65-75. Take the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella for $3 and go on a budget-friendly safari.

Cambodia: With a daily budget of $50-65, Cambodia is a hidden gem for budget travelers. Use US dollars everywhere and enjoy $0.50 beer.

Malaysia: This modern country offers affordable comfort with a daily budget of $45-60. Enjoy cheap hotels and delicious food, but be prepared for pricey beer.

Thailand: Visit the north for a classic cheap Thailand experience, with a daily budget of $25-35. Head to islands like Koh Lanta and Koh Chang for affordable beach time.

The Philippines: With a daily budget of $80-140, the Philippines offers beautiful beaches and English-speaking locals. Stay on one island to save on transportation costs.

Foods for Your Kidney's Health

Taking care of your kidneys starts with the foods you eat. Incorporating low-sodium, low-potassium, and low-phosphorus foods into your diet can help maintain kidney health. The foods shown here, including red peppers, fish, and berries, are excellent choices for supporting kidney function while providing your body with essential nutrients.

In addition to being nutrient-dense, these foods are easy to incorporate into your daily meals. The antioxidants in berries and the healthy fats in olive oil contribute to reducing inflammation, which can help protect your kidneys. A balanced diet is a crucial aspect of overall health and wellness, especially when it comes to preventing kidney disease.

Making these healthy foods a regular part of your routine is a simple way to nurture your kidneys and overall well-being. By supporting your kidneys with the right nutrition, you ensure that they continue to perform their essential role in filtering toxins and maintaining fluid balance. 

Meanwhile, Did you know That......

 

The Philippines Tops the List of Best Countries to Hire Remote Employees!

The Philippines is one of the top destinations for hiring remote employees, particularly in customer service and back-office roles. With strong English proficiency, cultural alignment with Western markets, and a world-class BPO sector, Filipino professionals stand out for their communication skills, adaptability, and loyalty.

Why the Philippines: Strong English proficiency, excellent customer support, and top-tier BPO talent. Top 20 Countries to Hire Remote Employees (Native Teams):

1. Philippines

2. Argentina

3. Thailand

4. Romania

5. Colombia

6. Poland

7. Mexico

8. Spain

9. Portugal

10. Vietnam

11. India

12. Serbia

13. Armenia

14. Nigeria

15. Hungary

16. South Africa

17. Turkey

18. Indonesia

19. Albania

20. Georgia