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The University of Mindanao Davao Main – College of Hospitality Education achieved a remarkable victory as its BS Hospitality Management students claimed Overall First Place at the Durian Culinary Olympics 2026, outperforming 12 participating schools from across the Davao Region at the Trade Exhibition Center, Rotary Park, Tagum City.
The university swept the podium with Gold medals awarded to Irene Cando and Jirah Sabidalas (Pizza & Pasta), Arlu Fulguerinas (Coffee, Hot & Cold), Raymund Martin B. Torres (Cocktail Extreme Flair Factor-Male), Maylyn Catubay (Cocktail Extreme Flair Factor-Female), and the team of Quennie Mae Magarao, Allysa Joyce Arduo, and Ching Malingin (Durian Desserts). Silver medals were secured by Arlu Fulguerinas, Clarence Hans Pongase, and Christian Lei Optina Cuabo (Coffee Shop Series), Sophie Maye Y. Cailing and Cyza Ashley N. Castro (Durian Celebration Cake), alongside Louis Sangadi, John Rownan Alba, and Caryl Lorainne De Guzman (Durian Fiesta Cookery). Rounding out the spectacular triumph, Bronze medals were earned by Marlone Pamogas, Kreisha Liam Felicity Villocino, and Princess Lucille Cordova (Street Food-Sweet & Savory), as well as Chalmer Toquero and Mark Antony Sanchez (Durian Grand Buffet).
This remarkable achievement serves as a powerful testament to our students' exceptional talent, boundless creativity, seamless teamwork, unwavering dedication, and deep-seated passion for culinary excellence. By pushing the boundaries of flavor and presentation on a highly competitive regional stage, these young hospitality professionals have shown what can be accomplished through hard work and a shared vision. Heartiest congratulations to the entire UM CHE students, faculty, coaches, and staff! Your historic victory resonates across all campuses, embodying the spirit of excellence that makes the University of Mindanao profoundly proud.
Contributor: Dr. Kiven G. Olivar, PH-HM
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