Shake it to the top

MANILA, Philippines - T.G.I.Friday’s gathered the best bartenders at the recent 2010 World Bartending Championship held at Friday’s worldwide headquarters in Carrollton, Dallas, Texas. The Philippines’ Raminad “Ram” Ong won second place. He received $5,000 and a trophy. Brian Zachau of T.G.I.Friday’s Minnesota was adjudged champion while Atillia Farmasi of Hungary placed third.

“I have always imagined competing at the World Finals but when I was waiting for my name to be called, I still couldn’t believe I was right there, living my dream,” said Ong. Ram was accompanied in the competition by Daisy Valencia, Friday’s director for operations and Jay Balancio, T.G.I.Friday’s Malate general manager.