About First Gourmet Academy - Ortigas Branch
First Gourmet Academy is a culinary school located in Manila, Philippines, positioning itself as the top culinary school in the country. The academy specializes in preparing aspiring chefs with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the global culinary industry through intensive, comprehensive, hands-on programs. Their curriculum is designed to propel students to success in the international culinary arena. The faculty includes experienced instructors such as Mats Loo, a former executive chef on cruise ships and at Michelin-star restaurants; Ziggy Segunial, an expert in Asian cuisines and wellness cooking with nearly 20 years of experience; Thomas Paul, who has 40 years of culinary arts experience; and Jojo Bolivar, a graduate who now works as a cook and food & beverage supervisor. The academy emphasizes practical training in professional kitchens with everyday face-to-face classes guided by chef-instructors. Enrollment is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with early reservation encouraged to secure slots and potentially qualify for Early Bird tuition savings or discounts for Senior High School graduates. The academy aims to turn students' passion for cooking into a real career, both locally and abroad.