Eat, drink, and be rewarded

For many, The Cravings Group is well recognized as the home of the Center for Culinary Arts (CCA) Manila. The group has earned a reputation for excellence in the field of culinary education, awareness, as well as a passion for cooking and the professionalization of the culinary industry. The numerous awards won by students, employees, and by the group over the years serve to bolster the company’s motivation towards excellence.

Continuing this tradition of distinction, The Cravings Group is also very proud of their C3 Events Group. Known for its excellence and personalized service, the group aligns itself with the needs of clients by offering a selection of tried-and-tested event suppliers: from the catering, lights, sound system and entertainment down to a selection of hosts, photographers, and videographers. The C3 Events Group is composed of various events venues under the Cravings Group of Companies, including the C3 Events Place in Greenhills, Cravings Center in Katipunan, Oceana Events Complex in SM MOA By The Bay, and Seven Suites Hotel Observatory in Antipolo. These unique, freestanding venues are designed for a host of social and corporate events.

Marking 2012 as a special year for the C3 Events Group is the renovation and refurbishment of the C3 Events Place in Greenhills. The venue features a unique and unconventional design and architecture where patrons can enjoy the unique structure while filling the place with their unique styles and personalities.

The C3 Events Place was recently the venue for such a gathering with the inaugural launch of “Eat&Drink MNL” showcasing Filipino cuisine through differently inspired local culinary creations. The evening featured menus from the major island groups found in the Philippines. Traditional recipes were given modern and “worldly” twists and were paired to perfection with an assortment of wines, beers, and spirits. Standout dishes included coconut shrimp on aligue rice served in filo cups and tuna kinilaw on a bed of suha with crisped wontons and nori shreds.

Eat&Drink MNL was also the perfect opportunity to recognize and award talented young Filipinos who embody the spirit and ideals of the Cravings Group. Given “Annies,” named after the president and founder of CCA Manila, Susana P. Guerrero, the awardees come from different fields, including the arts, entertainment, environment, food, creativity, and innovation. And now, meet the awardees.

Jason Magbanua is a world-class wedding videographer famous for having a special eye for that special and sacred day. He is known for his Same-Day Edit Works, winning prestigious awards such as five 2007 Creative Excellence Awards from the Wedding and Event Videographers Association International and eight artistic awards from the 4ever Group.

Another individual who works in the field of documenting weddings, Orly Ruiz shoots scene-stealing and stylish prenuptial and wedding photos. His vision and creativity created Metrophoto, a pool of talented wedding photographers known for their contemporary style of capturing every special moment.

Hindy Tantoco, a well-known designer for Rustan’s and eco-warrior, also owns the organic/ biodynamic farm called Holy Carabao that supplies vegetables to Rustan’s Supermarket Makati, San Antonio, Forbes, and Rockwell. Talented actress Lovi Poe is also a recipient of the Annie this year for her work, garnering many awards, including Best Actress at the Cinemalaya, Famas, Golden Screen and Star Awards for TV.

 Another awardee is popular eventologist Tim Yap, an all-around man who knows how to bring in the fun. Tim has hosted countless programs and high-profile events. He also owns some cool bars with his business partners such as Encore and Republiq.

 Up-and-coming singer/actor Elmo Magalona is one of the bright young talents today with a very promising career as a musician. Like his father, the late Francis M., Elmo continues to inspire the Filipino community through musical activism. “When In Manila” founder and radio DJ Vince Golangco receives the Annie this year for his work online, on air, and on screen. His adventures throughout Manila can be seen in his blog. He is also a DJ for Mellow 94.7 and the host of Tek Tok TV on Global News Network.

Team Manila rounds out the list of this year’s Annie winners, for their catchy slogans and designs, re-introducing Manila under new perspectives. Drawing their inspiration from the urban lifestyle of the colorful streets of Manila, they capture these images on their shirts. Founders Jowee Alviar and Mon Punzalan now have five stores and over 40 resellers, not just in the Philippines but also abroad.

Who do you think’s going to get an Annie next year?                         

* * *

Visit www.cravingsgroup.com.

E-mail enricomiguelsubido@gmail.com. Follow @_stilltalking on Twitter.