In a remarkable display of skill and expertise, Ms. Kimberlee Dela Cruz, a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management student from Isabela State University Angadanan Campus, emerged as the 3rd Runner-Up in the prestigious 2nd Manila Young Sommelier Competition which took place at the World Trade Center, Pasay, Metro Manila on December 18, 2023, a testament to ISU-AC’s commitment to SDG 4 – Quality Education, as well as SDG 17- Partnership for Goals.

The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of De La Salle College of St. Benilde School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management’s Vateliens In Progress and Young Hoteliers’ Exposition and was co-presented by Wine Head Sommelier Philippines, the Organization of Bar Professionals, and Worldbex Services International.

Ms. Dela Cruz’s journey to success was not only a testament to her talent but also a reflection of the excellent mentorship provided by BSHM Chairperson, Asst. Prof. Dr. Crist B. Bartolome. Ms. Dela Cruz underwent an intensive one-on-one apprenticeship and masterclass with mentor Mr. Carlo Masin at Cork Wine Bar and Shop BGC, fine-tuning her skills and knowledge in anticipation of the competition.

The competition, featuring 13 contenders from various schools, consisted of three challenging rounds that tested the participants’ knowledge and practical skills.

In every successive round, the contenders face elimination. The initial round commences with 13 contenders, narrowing down to 10 in the second round, and further reducing to five in the third round.

In the first round, participants faced a wine theory quiz with varying difficulty levels, followed by a practical test that assessed correct wine-opening techniques and precise wine-pouring skills.

As the competition progressed, Ms. Dela Cruz showcased her prowess in the second round by flawlessly selecting and presenting wines from shelves within a time constraint. The final round, a comprehensive practical test, covered correct wine service techniques, wine decanting, oral deductive tasting, food and wine pairing, and a question-and-answer portion.

A distinguished panel of judges which included industry experts such as Ms. Pierre Addison, Mr. Jonathan-Pierre Migne, Chef Arlene Oliveros, Ms. Gigi Varua, and Ms. Carina Gonzales, evaluated the participants. Among the tough competition, Ms. Kimberlee Dela Cruz’s exceptional skills earned her the title of 3rd Runner-Up.

The winners of the competition were Mr. Aron Lumigao (from UP Diliman) as the Champion, Ms. Kyla Escalona (from LPU Batangas) as the 1st Runner Up, Ms. Laetitia Bugarin (from St. Scholastica’s College) as the 2nd Runner Up, and Ms. Anna Patricia Bernabe (from Siena College of Taytay) as the 4th Runner Up.

“This is my first time in a wine competition and entering the wine Industry. And I can’t believe that I can enter the top 5 but to be the 3rd runner-up…I learned a lot and had a great experience.” said Ms. Dela Cruz. She then thanked Mr. Masin and Dr. Bartolome for their support and guidance.

In a short interview, Dr. Bartolome expressed his elation saying, “When competition ignites the flames of ambition, the world shines brighter with the light of collective success.”

Ms. Kimberlee Dela Cruz’s remarkable achievement not only instills pride in ISU-AC but also serves as a testament to the caliber of talent cultivated within the BSHM program.

ISU-AC further strives to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all, preparing students for the dynamic challenges of the hospitality industry, aligning with SDG 4. Ms. Dela Cruz’s journey as a rising star, through partnership with other institutions, exemplifies the collaborative spirit encouraged by SDG 17.

As she continues to make waves in her chosen field, her success becomes a beacon for future students, showcasing the positive outcomes that result from a commitment to education, excellence, and collaborative endeavors.

𝑃ℎ𝑜𝑡𝑜 𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑡𝑠: 𝑀𝑎𝑛𝑖𝑙𝑎 𝑌𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑔 𝑆𝑜𝑚𝑚𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑟