Chef Jam Melchor launches Kayumanggi at Newport World Resorts

L-R: Newport World Resorts Director for Corporate Communications Joy Andrade, Philippine Culinary Historian and Heritage Advocate Felice Prudente Sta. Maria, United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement Founder Chef Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor, Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Dr. Leonila Baluyut, Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista, and Sheraton Manila Hotel General Manager Anna Vergara

When asked about one’s favorite Filipino dish, many would likely mention Sinigang, Adobo, or Sisig—beloved staples of Filipino cuisine. The Philippines boasts a diverse culinary landscape with over hundreds of distinct dishes spread across the archipelago. From simple home-cooked meals to intricate, labor-intensive specialties, Filipino cuisine stands as a proud testament to the nation’s rich heritage and cultural identity.
 

On February 19, 2025, Newport World Resorts hosted the highly anticipated launch of Kayumanggi: A Kaleidoscope of Filipino Flavors and Food Traditions at Sheraton Manila Hotel. The book showcases 150 recipes, offering an in-depth exploration of its unique flavors, regional origins, and traditional cooking techniques. Authored by Chef Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor, the founder of the Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement, Kayumanggi aims to highlight the cultural significance of Filipino food, foster appreciation for its historical roots, and inspire a deeper understanding of the diverse influences that have shaped the nation’s culinary identity.



“Kayumanggi serves as a guide for future generations, ensuring that the beauty of Filipino cuisine is cherished and never underutilized,” Chef Jam shared. The Philippines’ culinary culture is deeply intertwined with national identity, making it essential to pass down traditions to future generations. Through the book, the roots and inspirations behind these dishes are revealed, encouraging readers to explore, celebrate, and appreciate the food that has shaped the nation. 

Newport World Resorts Chief Marketing Officer welcomed luminaries of the Philippines’ culinary world to the event, highlighting the premier integrated resorts’ shared vision with Chef Jam’s advocacy, “At Newport World Resorts, we take pride in supporting initiatives that promote and preserve Filipino artistry. We are keenly excited about Kayumanggi, as every page reveals a new facet of the country’s rich culinary history, every experience here at the property also offers something unique to discover.” 

For more information on Newport World Resorts, visit www.newportworldresorts.com and follow @newportworldresorts on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Join Newport World Resorts Viber Community at https://newportwr.com/nwrvibercommunity for exclusive updates. Enjoy year-round access to shows at Newport Performing Arts Theater with Epic Pass and Epic Pass Unlimited. Every visit is made more rewarding with an Epic Rewards membership, download the Epic Rewards Mobile App for free at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.

First established as the pioneer integrated resort in the Philippines in 2009, Newport World Resorts encompasses a newer and bigger world of extraordinary thrills within the bustling Newport City community. It is a one-stop, non-stop casino, hotels, and entertainment complex comprising two main wings, Newport Grand Wing and Newport Garden Wing that feature a wide array of gaming thrills and an innovative EPIC REWARDS program for members.

Centrally located within a prime tourism spot, right across the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3, Newport World Resorts boasts of the highest hotel room key count in a single property with five international hotel brands, MARRIOTT Hotel Manila, SHERATON Manila Hotel, HOTEL OKURA Manila, HILTON Hotel Manila, and HOLIDAY INN Express Manila-Newport City. The sprawling property also features a wide range of Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) venues, including a three-story convention center that houses the country’s largest hotel ballroom, the Marriott Grand Ballroom.

At Newport World Resorts, entertainment and lifestyle options abound. The award-winning Newport Performing Arts Theater seats over 1,700 audiences for live entertainment from plays and musicals to concerts and amazing performances. Likewise, the Newport Grand Wing’s The Grand Bar and Lounge and the Newport Garden Wing’s Bar 360 and El Calle Food and Music Hall provide nightly live entertainment for guests and patrons. The Newport Mall features international luxury brands and the state-of-the-art Newport Cinemas. Also within Newport City, are over 70 restaurants and dining outlets offering a diverse selection of local and international cuisine, prepared by top Filipino and international chefs.

 

Additional photos:

Department of Trade and Industry Assistant Secretary Nylah Rizza Bautista and Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement Founder Chef Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor


United States Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Philippine Culinary Heritage Movement Founder Chef Jose Antonio Miguel “Jam” Melchor


Kayumanggi Book Launch at Sheraton Manila Hotel, Newport World Resorts