Around the world in 12 cuisines

The Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) and MasterCard recently introduced a new card payment technology.

To highlight the many unique features as well as the global prestige associated with the new scheme, BPI hosted a never-seen-before- culinary experience adopting the theme "Around the World in 12 Cuisines" presented at the grand ballroom of the Cebu Marriott Hotel.

Popular executive chef Robert Lilja prepared different cuisines from Brazil, Italy, France, Germany, South Africa, Switzerland, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the Philippines. The different cuisines were grouped by regions. There were live performances, documentary videos and original music from the various destinations, which reflected the vibrant and dynamic cultures of the represented nations. The march of European specialties complete with a lively flamenco dance number ushered in the parade. Drums rolled with explosive, upbeat sounds that signaled the festive mood of South Africa and Latin America. The invitees feasted on Babodie lamb pie and Charrusco spits of pork and beef.

Exotic art and the mystic music of Asia filled the room. There was a wushu martial arts demonstration. The waiters this time dressed in Chinese outfits served Sis Kofte beef skewers, noodles with chili prawn and sushi.

Culminating the sumptuous food expedition brought guests back home. The University of Cebu’s chorus Kay Ganda ng Ating Musica signaled the waiters, dressed in colorful rural fiesta costumes to serve the dessert – ube prepared as leche flan.

While the whole experience only featured 12 cuisines from around the world, there’s definitely more to it with Bank of the Philippine Islands, Express Credit Gold MasterCard where the world is yours to relish.

This much sought after credit card gives free comprehensive travel insurance package, lower foreign exchange rates when used abroad and access to the 24-hour BPI customer service hotline. Plus there are substantial discounts, freebies and perks from participating shopping, dining, travel and entertainment establishments.