MANILA, Philippines — Jeriel Encarnado, a cake artist from Lipa City, Batangas, bagged the Gold Award in the Philippine Culinary Cup (PCC) wedding cake category with his stunning gothic architecture-themed design.
The PCC, endorsed by the World Association of Chefs Society, is a prestigious culinary competition where Filipino chefs showcase their culinary skills.
The cake took nearly three months to complete due to the intricate designs, all hand-piped using royal icing, according to Encarnado.
“Creating the piece is no easy task. A lot of sacrifice and discipline is needed in a short period of time, and to be honest, it is very tiring but at the same time rewarding,” Encarnado said in his social media post shared by Be An Inquirer.
“The main purpose of why these heavily ornamented structures are built is because it is for the Glory of God,” Encarnado told INQUIRER.net over Facebook chat on Tuesday.
When asked about how he got started as a cake artist, Encarnado said started baking cupcakes and other basic baked goods when he was in his third year of high school. He is still studying culinary arts in college and is set to graduate in 2023.
“With the basic knowledge I had about icing, I did my own research and development sa mga techniques na I see from people around the world,” shared Encarnado.
He said that he began practicing using royal icing at the start of the pandemic in 2020, when he had a lot of spare time.
“I really enjoyed the process, which led me to opportunities like the Philippine Culinary Cup 2021 and 2022,” he stated.
On top of his sweet creations, Encarnado also draw inspirations from his other pursuits, such as drawing and painting, which he said allowed him to come up with beautiful designs.
“Naging advantage din po kasi ang pagiging artist sa field,” he said.
(Being an artist is an advantage in this field).
The award-winning cake artist encouraged aspirants in the field to keep practicing.
“Always practice even if you see no progress at all, listen to valid people, have patience and grit, and above all, have faith in God,” he advised.
Join us and engage with the community by sharing interesting stories, photos, and videos! You may send us your stories via inq.news/BeAnINQUIRER
RELATED STORY:
Surprise success is sweet for mother of two
