Gwendal Poullennec, international director of the Michelin Guide, flew all the way from France to the Philippines for the inaugural Michelin Guide: Manila and Environs and Cebu 2026 awarding of Michelin stars and special awards for the first ever in the Philippines last 30 October in Marriott Grand Ballroom, Pasay City.

In his speech, Poullennec shared their criteria for judging, assuring everyone that the same criteria was used in the Philippines and anywhere in the world.

Michelin Guide inspectors, according to him, “focus only on the quality of the food proposed, quality of the products, mastery of cooking techniques, harmony and balancing flavor.”

Also taken into consideration, he said, are “The personality of the chef as reflected on the plate and consistency between visits.”

A total of 108 establishments were awarded, ranging from a “carinderia” and “eateries,” to luxury and fine dining restaurants — owned by both locals and expats, and by homegrown cooks with "sariling sikap" (own training) and those who schooled and trained abroad.

One restaurant was awarded with the country’s first ever two Michelin stars, while eight got one Michelin star, 25 got the Bib Gourmand distinction, 74 are Michelin selected, one has been awarded with Green Star for mindful gastronomy, and three special awards were handed over for Young Chef, Service and Exceptional Cocktails.