The sixth edition of Manila Standard’s Clash of Kawali reached its scintillating conclusion on December 8, 2024, at Hotel Lucky Chinatown in Binondo.
The “Community Champions” edition featured past winners of the celebrated cooking competition going head-to-head in a festive culinary battle.
Mommy Diane S. Dela Cruz and her son Kyle of the Dela Cruz family clinched the top prize with their standout dish, Kalderetang Naglalagablab. This spicy and creamy take on the classic Noche Buena dish, elevated with coconut milk and paired with kutsinta for dessert, earned them the prestigious title of the first-ever Clash of Kawali Community Champions and the coveted Golden Kawali trophy.
The Dela Cruz duo, who previously won the Mother’s Day Special Part 2 earlier this year, expressed their gratitude and excitement after the win.
“We’re overjoyed and overwhelmed. I can’t help but feel emotional again,” said Mommy Diane. “To be surrounded by past champions and knowing we were up against skilled teams who have their own strengths—it was a lot of pressure. But just like the last time, we stuck together as a team, and we feel so blessed and lucky to win this.”
Kyle shared how the competition strengthened their bond. “This event brought us even closer as a family,” he said.
“It’s a great bonding experience that combines teamwork and our shared passion for food.”
With the P7,000 cash prize, the family plans to spread the holiday cheer by sharing their winnings with loved ones.
“We’re planning to use it to prepare a sumptuous Noche Buena meal for the whole family this Christmas,” Kyle added.
The event, attended by a lively audience of family and friends, was a true celebration of culinary talent, family unity, and holiday traditions. Judges praised the contestants for their creativity and flavor, singling out the Dela Cruz family’s dish for its “bold flavors and heartfelt execution.”
As the Clash of Kawali continues to spotlight local talent and shared experiences, this edition underscored the importance of community, family, and food during the holiday season.
