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U.S. NLRB says Jollibee engaged in ‘unfair labor practice,’ sets Oct 11 hearing
The National Labor Relations Board is opening an investigation into the Jollibee labor issue. It has scheduled a hearing on October 11 at 9:30 a.m. where both parties — the dismissed workers who say they were “illegally terminated” and Jollibee management — will present testimony before an administrative law judge. The hearing will take place […]
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Heart-healthy Filipino dishes from 36 culinary trailblazers
Why do Filipinos ask, Kumain ka na? (Have you eaten yet?) whenever they meet? This book, compiled and edited by UK-based Filipina editor Jacqueline Chio-Lauri, presents the extraordinary food culture of the Philippines in stories and recipes from 36 culinary trailblazers—award-winning chefs, food writers and social media stars from around the globe. They share not […]
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Chef Nokee Bucayu proud of her southern-style Silog
Imagine a popular Filipino egg dish given a unique Kentucky spin. The result is Toc Bilog, a kind of breakfast sandwich created by Chef Nokee Bucayu — her full name is Emanor Krizelli Ancayan Bucayu — a Filipina who moved to the Bluegrass State when she was 10. Bucayu is always looking for ways to […]
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Jollibee workers protest termination allegedly after attempting to demand higher wages
Former Jollibee workers protested at popular Filipino fast food restaurant in the Journal Square location in Jersey City, New Jersey, claiming they have been terminated for organizing “for higher wages and a fairer workplace.” Workers delivered a letter to management demanding reinstatement and backpay. This is the first-ever worker protest in a Jollibee location in […]
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Claude Tayag, chef and watercolor artist
By Claire Mercado-Obias Claude Tayag is best known as a chef specializing in Kapampangan cuisine. Bale Dutung, the restaurant that he runs with his wife Mary Ann, is a coveted dining destination in Angeles City. It is here where he hosted Anthony Bourdain for a Filipino cuisine episode on the show “No Reservations” back in […]
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The art and patience of making ramen, according to Chef Gino Bolandrina
Ramen Chef Gino Bolandrina hosted “Irasshaimase! A Ramen Journey” at the Anime Boston 2023 convention on April 7 where he shared how his fondness for ramen developed from watching endless anime. Bolandrina is the chief ramen chef at KuruKuru Ramen Shop in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He was joined at the event by Jessica Bolandrina, owner and chief […]
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COVID did not halt this food truck from cruising
By Cristina DC Pastor The Filipino culture of snacking inspired Marisse Panlilio to launch her food truck in Jersey City, New Jersey. Snacks like peanuts or pork rinds are comfort food that evoke nostalgia and connect Filipinos to a past that was pleasurable and familiar. While snacks are usually eaten between meals, some Filipinos snack […]
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Bilao Restaurant: Lessons on business, balance, and bonds of friendship
By Claire Mercado-Obias BILAO (bee-lah-oh) is a Filipino word referring to a round tray made from woven bamboo. Pancit (stir-fried noodles) or kakanin (rice cakes) are some traditional items served on a bilao, making them easy to transport and ideal for potlucks — no need to worry about getting your Tupperware back after the party. Food on a bilao is also symbolic of […]
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Community mourns passing of King Phojanakong: ‘Great chef, great friend’
Chef King Phojanakong, known for his Southeast Asian specialty dishes served in his Lower East Side restaurant Kuma Inn has passed away. He suffered from a rare amoeba infection, according to a Gofundme piece written by his brother-in-law Eddie Nau. “King was admitted to NYU hospital with inflammation to the brain among other symptoms, including […]