BUSINESS MENTOR: A Journey of Passion, Perseverance, and Filipino Culinary Pride

By Armando “BUTZ”{ Bartolome

In the bustling world of culinary arts, where flavors and creativity collide, Chef Gerick Manalo stands out not just for his culinary expertise but for his inspiring journey of passion, perseverance, and dedication to Filipino cuisine. From humble beginnings in Santiago, Isabela, to becoming a renowned chef, brand ambassador, and social media influencer, Gerick’s story is a testament to the power of hard work, family support, and staying true to one’s roots.

From Isabela to New York: A Culinary Dream Takes Flight

Gerick Manalo’s journey into the culinary world began at home, inspired by his mother, Grace Manalo, who ran a restaurant business. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in food and hospitality, Gerick developed a love for cooking early on. This passion led him to pursue a degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management, majoring in Culinary Arts, at De La Salle College of St. Benilde. 

After graduating in 2014, Gerick didn’t rest on his laurels. He immediately sought to gain real-world experience, working at the prestigious Sofitel hotel. However, his thirst for knowledge and growth didn’t stop there. Gerick made a bold decision to further his studies in New York, where he immersed himself in advanced culinary techniques and global food trends. This experience not only honed his skills but also broadened his perspective on the culinary world, setting the stage for his future success.

The Turning Point: From Chef to TV Personality

Gerick’s life took an unexpected turn when he joined a reality game show on GMA7. Winning the jackpot prize catapulted him into the spotlight, catching the attention of producers and audiences alike. This led to opportunities as a guest chef on morning shows, where his charisma and culinary skills shone through. 

But Gerick didn’t let fame distract him from his true passion: cooking. He continued to balance his newfound celebrity status with his role as a chef, ensuring that his culinary expertise remained at the forefront. His ability to seamlessly transition between the kitchen and the camera earned him the respect of both the culinary and entertainment industries.

A Brand Ambassador with a Mission

Today, Gerick Manalo is not just a chef but also a sought-after brand ambassador for major food and lifestyle brands such as Knorr, Lady’s Choice, and PLDT. His social media presence, particularly on TikTok and Instagram, has made him a household name, with millions of followers who look up to him for inspiration and culinary tips.

However, Gerick’s success didn’t come without challenges. As he candidly shared in an interview with Armando “Butz” Bartolome on *The Business Mentor Talks*, the life of an influencer and brand ambassador is not always sustainable. The constant pressure to stay relevant and the uncertainty of when opportunities might dry up can be daunting. Yet, Gerick remains grounded, focusing on his long-term goals and financial literacy. He dreams of following in his parents’ footsteps by establishing his own business, ensuring that he has a stable foundation for the future.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Chefs

One of Gerick’s most admirable qualities is his commitment to giving back to the community and inspiring aspiring chefs. He frequently engages with hospitality and food and beverage students, sharing his journey and offering advice. For Gerick, it’s not just about cooking; it’s about creating a positive impact and encouraging others to pursue their passions with dedication and integrity.

Gerick’s advice to millennials and aspiring content creators is simple yet profound: find what drives you and stay true to it. He emphasizes the importance of hard work, patience, and consistency, drawing inspiration from the Japanese concept of *Ikigai*—finding joy and purpose in what you do. For Gerick, success is not just about fame or financial gain; it’s about making a meaningful contribution to the community and staying authentic to oneself.

A Vision for Filipino Cuisine on the Global Stage

As a proud Filipino chef, Gerick is passionate about elevating Filipino cuisine on the global stage. He believes in the potential of Filipino dishes to compete with international cuisines, citing the growing popularity of degustation and course meals in Manila. Gerick envisions a future where Filipino cuisine is celebrated worldwide, with homegrown restaurants earning Michelin stars—a dream he hopes to contribute to in the coming years.

Gerick’s journey is a reminder that success is not a straight path but a series of challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned along the way. His story resonates with anyone who has ever dared to dream big and work tirelessly to achieve their goals.

For more inspiring stories and valuable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and success, be sure to follow Armando “Butz” Bartolome’s column, *The Business Mentor*, every Monday in The Philippine Business News. Don’t forget to like and follow *The Philippine Business News* on LinkedIn for the latest updates and thought-provoking articles. Stay inspired and informed!

Chef Gerick Manalo’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and staying true to one’s roots. His story is not just about food; it’s about inspiring others to chase their dreams and make a difference in the world—one dish at a time.