THE Westin Manila Demi Chef de Partie Aaron Joseph Gulinao wins the Barilla Pasta Championship Asia 2025, representing the Philippines in the finals held in Malaysia, just a few months after winning in the national competition.
CRAFTED WITH LOVE Chef Aaron Gulinao’s Spaghetti in Alaminos Longganisa Ragu with Kesong Puti bested seven other dishes in the renowned competition and was praised by the jury for its excellence in technique, presentation and balance of flavors. PHOTO FROM THE WESTIN MANILA
Organized by Barilla for Professionals, the recently concluded championship is regarded as the biggest pasta competition in the region for emerging chefs to exchange creative culinary techniques and refine and showcase their talents.
Developed by Robinsons Land Corp. and managed by Marriott International, The Westin Manila is a Michelin Guide selected, 5-star wellness-forward hotel located in the heart of Ortigas business district.
Chef Gulinao began his culinary career as a trainee at the Manila Marriott Hotel. Now, he serves as demi chef de partie at The Westin Manila.
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For the Barilla Pasta Championships, Gulinao crafted his signature dish as a love letter to his wife. Drawing inspiration from the famous Italian carbonara, he incorporated the core ingredients and techniques used in the classic pasta dish and gave it his own spin by using the Alaminos longganisa, one of his wife’s favorite local delicacies that has a similar taste to the guanciale used in traditional carbonara recipes.
“Winning the title of Barilla Pasta Champion is a great honor and a dream come true,” Chef Gulinao shared. “This recognition inspires me to keep pushing boundaries and explore the endless possibilities of pasta and Italian cuisine.”
Dining and Cooking