Embassy Highlights Culinary Achievements of Chef Evelyn Bunoan

WASHINGTON D.C. – The Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C., in cooperation with the Filipino American Cancer Care Inc. (FACC), launched a cookbook by Chef Evelyn Bunoan entitled ‘Cooking with MasterChef Evelyn’ features Filipino, French, Spanish, and American dishes on 18 November 2022.

“The presence of over 4.3 million Filipinos and Filipino-Americans in the US has made it almost inevitable to launch a food revolution - if you will - of traditional Filipino, and Filipino inspired modern cuisine”, highlighted Charge d'Affaires, a.i. Jaime Ramon Ascalon, Jr. during his opening remarks.

‘This first volume of this book - because I’m working on the second volume - is a culmination of my accomplishments, from my impossible dream come true. A poor girl from a small town in the Philippines to becoming a Jane of all trades and an accomplished master chef,” said Chef Bunoan during her remarks. She later took on questions from members of the audience about her cooking style and unique dishes featured in the book.

The family and relatives of Chef Bunoan, and other members of the Filipino community were present during the launch. Patrons and regulars of her restaurant/deli, the Philippine Oriental Market, also attended the event.

Chef Evelyn Bunoan pursued Culinary Arts at Le Cordon Bleu in London and earned her Master Chef Certificates in French Culinary Arts and Patisserie. She has also founded the Cancer Help Eat Well (CHEW) Foundation which is a 501(c)(3) public charity, established to help cancer patients and their caregivers learn more about sustaining a healthy diet.

The Philippine Oriental Market is located in Arlington, Virginia which has been around for over 44 years. 

Deputy Chief of Mission Jaime Ramon Ascalon Jr. gives his keynote speech during Chef Bunoan’s cookbook launch

Chef Evelyn Bunoan (left) and her husband, Mr. Oscar Bunoan (right) answers questions from the audience