In 1575, English historian John Hooker wrote: "There is the proverb, the more cooks the worse potage." An early saying we still use today, this has eventually evolved to the phrase we are familiar with — "Too many cooks spoil the broth."

We all had fond childhood memories where we offered to assist in the kitchen. But the real reason was to lick the spoons and other cooking implements clean. However, we were often driven away to not cause a distraction — or worse, a mess.

These days, we continue to extend the same generous offer, with genuine intentions to lighten the load from the cooking brigade. But our proposals are not appreciated. The culinary kingdom is a one-person play, it seems.

Visionary Torre Lorenzo Development Corporation chief executive officer Tomas Lorenzo had a mission: to bring together 12 of the country's most decorated culinarians under one roof. Dubbed as "Chefs on Tour," the dozen culinary stars headed to Davao to present their very own specialties in celebration of excellence.

Dusit Davao general manager Christoph Kuch made this happen — not just once, but twice! The sterling chosen descended upon Dusit Thani Lubi Plantation Resort and the Dusit Thani Grand Ballroom for two evenings of magical ambiance and gourmet food.

Here they are: