Juan Carlo the Caterer celebrated its 30th anniversary with a grand gathering at The Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan, bringing together longtime clients, industry partners, and supporters who have witnessed the company’s rise as one of the Philippines’ premier catering brands.

LionhearTV was among the invited media, and even from the beautifully crafted invitation alone, it was clear that a world-class celebration awaited. The event did not disappoint—delivering a night that combined culinary artistry, musical performances, and storytelling that honored the company’s roots and legacy.

The anniversary program unfolded like a full concert, featuring performances by some of the country’s top artists: Erik Santos, Aicelle Santos-Zambrano, Ogie and Regine Alcasid, Yeng Constantino, Morissette, and Angeline Quinto.

The production was directed by John Pratts, with each performer sharing how Juan Carlo played a role in their milestone celebrations.

The story of Juan Carlo began in Batangas, where the Del Rosario family started with borrowed dinnerware, heirloom recipes, and personally delivered dishes. Their foundation was built on discipline, consistency, and a drive to improve.

The company survived major industry disruptions—including the 2020 pandemic. With stored ingredients intended for future events, the team shifted to ready-to-cook meals and home deliveries. Intimate celebrations still required memorable dining, and the brand adapted without laying off a single employee. Instead, staff received additional training to enhance service and plating for the eventual return of events.

For the anniversary, the company created a multi-course menu inspired by local landscapes, ingredients, and shared memories. Each dish served as a chapter in the story of the Del Rosario family and the communities they have worked with.

Highlights of the curated menu included:

  • Alab ng Sining – a blazing appetizer featuring Bayambang red onion, Batangas kamias, Bicol pili, Benguet potato, Laguna de Bay kangkong, A5 Wagyu, foie gras, and gold leaf
  • Tahimik na Kabundukan – Potage Bonne Femme with Cordillera potatoes, Pangasinan leeks, and Pampanga unagi
  • Salinlahi – smoked duck, poached pear, and mango slaw
  • Libro ng Lahi – parchment-baked Chilean sea bass with French sabayon and Pateros salted egg, infused with flavors from Mindanao, Bohol, and Bicol
  • Gunita – guava sorbet inspired by the childhood summers of founders Engr. Alex Michael and Teresita del Rosario
  • Pagsilang – US Angus rib eye and lobster with aligue-saffron risotto and a Mindoro mustasa atchara mustard emulsion
  • Hiyas ng Kalikasan – a dessert crafted from Cebu mangoes, Pangasinan corn, Quezon coconut, and Silang honeycomb

Before Juan Carlo became the caterer of choice for high-profile events, founder Engr. Alex Michael del Rosario developed his palate through restaurant explorations and learned culinary principles from his aunt, Cecilia del Rosario Pacumio—principles of excellence, elegance, transparency, and deep respect for food.

These values guided the couple as they left Saudi Arabia to establish the business, naming it after their son, Juan Carlo. Over the years, the company handled milestone occasions such as: The 2010 wedding of Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid, Kathryn Bernardo’s 2014 debut, the 2012 surprise wedding of Zoren Legaspi and Carmina Villarroel, prestigious corporate events, including a major gathering hosted by the US Embassy.

Assistant Vice President Juan Carlo del Rosario emphasized the heart of their work: “The real magic isn’t just in the food—it’s in the bond and trust we share with our clients. They become family whose milestones we help stage.”

He added that the company values constant communication, thoughtful holiday gestures, and celebrating clients’ special occasions as part of their service culture.

In his closing remarks, del Rosario reflected: “Our legacy is built on passion, hard work, and staging tasteful celebrations. As we set new standards for luxury catering, we remain committed to delivering world-class culinary performances and creating unforgettable memories.”

With three decades of excellence, innovation, and heartfelt service behind them, Juan Carlo the Caterer moves forward with the same family spirit that shaped its legacy—ready to create more milestone moments for generations to come. (with reports from Aldrine Benitez)