Filipino food has always been about heart and heritage, but now it’s also about global recognition. This month, Guevarra’s by Chef Laudico continued its mission to elevate Pinoy cuisine with the fourth installment of Taste of the Philippines: A Global Culinary Journey—this time headlined by award-winning Dubai-based chef David Jezreel Lizardo Pamplona, more popularly known as Chef Dabo.
From Dubai’s Food Scene to San Juan’s Culinary Stage
Held last August 18, 2025, at Guevarra’s in San Juan City, the event showcased how Filipino flavors can stand tall on the world stage. Chef Dabo, who has made waves in Dubai’s multicultural dining scene, is the Managing Director, Head Chef, and Co-Founder of Naimas Café & Bistro. With over 13 years of culinary experience, he’s been recognized with prestigious honors, including four Gold Medals at Salon Culinaire Dubai and a PRO Chef 2019 finalist title.
“Dubai is a global dining hub, and Filipino cuisine is so versatile it fits any culture,” Chef Dabo shared, adding that his mission is to make Filipino ingredients as globally recognized as sushi or curry.
Filipino Flavors with a Global Twist
At Guevarra’s, guests were treated to a special curated buffet inspired by Chef Dabo’s food philosophy—honoring tradition while embracing modern and international techniques. His featured creations included:
Humba-Rum Chicken Empanada – a savory-sweet pocket with a Filipino fiesta twist
Tiyula Itum Inasal Yakitori – fusing Tausug black beef stew flavors with the beloved grilled inasal
Bistek Saltado – a wok-style take on the classic bistek Tagalog
“I mixed fine-dining techniques with authentic Filipino flavors,” Chef Dabo explained. “What makes it shine is honesty, roots, and heart.”
Chef Roland Laudico also shared one of his recipes that's very Pinoy but with an interesting twist. The Shrimp Laing Rebosado with Coconut Wasabi Cream is a bold reimagination of laing with a Japanese flair.
Guevarra’s Commitment to Filipino Culinary Pride
Chefs Roland and Jackie Laudico, the creative minds behind Guevarra’s, expressed excitement about spotlighting Filipino chefs making their mark abroad.
Chef Roland said: “Our mission has always been to promote Filipino cuisine locally and globally. By collaborating with chefs like Dabo, we’re amplifying that vision and inspiring more people to discover our flavors.”
Chef Jackie added: “Working with a Filipino chef based in the Middle East gives our cuisine a unique edge, especially with the millions of OFWs in the region who share the same cultural journey.”
Why This Matters for Filipino Food
For many Filipinos abroad, food is a way to stay connected to home. Collaborations like Guevarra’s and Chef Dabo’s not only bring pride but also create opportunities for Filipino flavors to gain global respect. And for us here in the Philippines, it’s a chance to taste how our heritage evolves through the hands of chefs representing us worldwide.
If you’re craving something proudly Pinoy yet globally inspired, Chef Dabo’s menu at Guevarra’s is now available for a limited time as part of their buffet.