Shallum John Manguiat Recto
BS Hotel and Restaurant Management, 2012
In my four years of study at the Lyceum of the Philippines University Batangas, I can say that it was downright challenging but at the same time, enjoyable. I learned so many things that were very vital for the job that I have now. Sticking to the fact that Hospitality is actually about connecting and mingling with other people, social skills are a must. And for an individual to succeed in this course, he must have an open mind plus an excellent ability in interpersonal matters.
LPU opened a lot of opportunities for me in different bartending competitions which made my career and myself ready for the world. I was a 4-time National Champion of the Philippines for Flair bartending and Top 8 in the World for in the International Bartending Association (IBA) Word Flair bartending Competition held in Tokyo, Japan in 2016. Being a top flair bartender in the world was my dream and I thank the College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management for all the support I got when I was still a student. I previously worked as a Food and Beverage Executive at Mandarin Oriental Singapore, Head bartender at the Fat Prince in Singapore, and now an On-trade Specialist at Willian Grant and Sons Singapore Distribution Pte. Ltd. I manage over 200 accounts of their spirits and cocktail listing. William Grant and Sons is the biggest family-owned Whisky Company in the world. The company has received the highest accolade of Distiller of the Year from either the International Wine and Spirits Competition or the International Spirits Challenge 12 times in the last 13 years. I am also a brand ambassador of their spirits portfolio.
I still remember my first day in LPU seeing all the students and teachers throwing bottles in the air and doing flair bartending. Until now I still treasure that moment. I could say that if I had not seen flair bartending with my own eyes and became in awe of the skills of those who mentored me I would not be where I am now. Pro Deo et Patria- “For God and Country” is what my heart says wherever I go and in whatever I do. #ButiNaLangNagLyceumAko