THE workroom is straight out of Gordon Ramsay’s hit TV series “MasterChef”. Each individual workstation is a complete kitchen, with its own cooking, cooling, water supply and waste disposal facility.
The workroom has a huge monitor upfront, that shows every activity in each station. The oven temperature, water consumption and weight of food waste are all flashed on screen.
The state-of-the art equipment at the newly-opened IFC training & Hospitality Facility in Paranaque mirrors the most advanced galley technology of notable passenger vessels including AI-supported training tools.
IFS was founded by Michel Pradolini of Belgium. It started in Antwerp in 2000, as a small enterprise and grew to be a global leader in maritime catering. The company operates in Belgium, Singapore, Poland, Africa, and the Philippines.
The 4,200 sq. meter training facility is a testament to Michel’s faith in the Filipino talent. “Around 70–80% of the global fleet is manned by Filipino seafarers. Renowned for their exceptional seamanship and service, Filipino crew are top-notch. They consistently stand at the forefront of the maritime industry. Their professionalism and dedication are unmatched. I also love the Philippines,” he happily said.
The training facility in Paranaque combines hands-on culinary and hospitality training, artificial intelligence learning, and sustainability practices with a strong focus on the crew’s overall well-being.
“We have integrated advanced technology into the learning experience, including the use of artificial intelligence. Trainees undergo a three-hour cooking exercise where they prepare soup, multiple main courses, and bread—replicating the demands of life onboard a vessel.”
“Throughout the process, their actions are monitored and recorded using sensors and cameras. Heat levels, water usage, and wastage are tracked by sensors, while cameras capture movement. AI then transcribes and analyzes all recorded data, providing valuable insights to further enhance training outcomes.”
The trainees are likewise monitored by the headquarters in Belgium. Hence, the exchange of best practices is consistent and executed in real time. Aside from expertise and innovation, IFS also embodies the company’s social commitment.
IFS extends the training to the less fortunate in partnership with ANAK Tulay ng Kabataan (TNK) Foundation under the guidance of Executive Director Matthieu Dauchez.
Qualified individuals take part in food courses to develop their skills and gain employment. Michel proudly shared that four beneficiaries from the foundation are now employed with an international shipping company.
Franshell Garcia, another beneficiary from ANAK Tulay ng Kabataan (TNK) Foundation, currently works as an executive secretary for IFS. “The training was challenging at first but I learned many things about accounting, administrative tasks, and the training process. I am very happy I was given a job opportunity. I feel grateful and very happy to be working professionally, “ she said.
The opening was led by Ambassador Vladislava Lordanova of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Belgium in Manila.
