The Center for Culinary Arts, Manila (CCA Manila) is the pioneering and premier culinary education institution in the Philippines. Located in Quezon City, it was established in 1996 and has since played a transformative role in shaping the culinary landscape of the country. CCA Manila is best known for its comprehensive academic programs, international affiliations, and contribution to the development of culinary professionals and entrepreneurs in Southeast Asia.
Company Background
Founded under the Cravings Group, CCA Manila was conceptualized to address the growing need for professional culinary training in the Philippines. It holds the distinction of being the first culinary school in the country to offer degree-level education in culinary arts and remains the benchmark institution in the industry. Under the leadership of Susana P. Guerrero, the institution continues to evolve, blending tradition with innovation in culinary education.
Core Offerings
CCA Manila offers a wide array of programs designed to cater to aspiring chefs, food entrepreneurs, and culinary professionals:
Academic Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Culinary Management: A 4-year program integrating culinary techniques with business and management education.
- Diploma in Culinary Arts & Technology Management: Focused on classical and contemporary cooking methods, food science, and kitchen operations.
- Diploma in Culinary Agripreneurship: Specializing in sustainable food systems, agribusiness, and farm-to-table concepts.
Continuing Education Programs
- Professional Chef Program: Aimed at those pursuing advanced skills in culinary arts and kitchen leadership.
- Fundamentals in Culinary Arts: Ideal for beginners and career shifters.
- Baking and Pastry Arts: Focused training in patisserie and dessert making.
- Filipino Cuisine Program: Specialized course in regional and heritage Filipino cooking.
Online and Modular Programs
- Procook Certification: An online intensive culinary training course.
- Baking Club: An interactive, hobbyist-friendly course for baking enthusiasts.
- Food Entrepreneur Masterclass: Designed to guide culinary startups and food business aspirants.
Unique Selling Proposition
CCA Manila distinguishes itself through:
- Globally recognized academic standards in partnership with international culinary institutions.
- State-of-the-art kitchen laboratories and learning spaces designed to simulate real-world culinary environments.
- A robust alumni network of chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality leaders across the globe.
- Sustainability and agripreneurship integration into curricula to address modern food challenges.
Infrastructure and Facilities
- Main campus in Katipunan Avenue, Quezon City, featuring demonstration kitchens, food laboratories, lecture rooms, and innovation spaces.
- Satellite kitchens and training facilities for partner events and internships.
- R&D Kitchen for product development and culinary innovation.
- Access to internship placements in 5-star hotels, global kitchens, and award-winning restaurants.
International Affiliations and Certifications
- Member of the American Culinary Federation (ACF).
- Accredited Training Center by the World Association of Chefs Societies (WACS).
- Partners with Kendall College (U.S.), International College of Hotel Management (Australia), and other academic institutions globally.
Market Reach and Enrollment
- Serves students from across the Philippines and ASEAN countries.
- Alumni network spans Asia, Middle East, North America, and Europe.
- Offers modular and seasonal classes for home bakers, hobbyists, and culinary tourists.
Social Impact and Community Engagement
- Conducts scholarship programs for underprivileged culinary talents.
- Supports farm-to-table initiatives in collaboration with Filipino farmers and local agribusinesses.
- Hosts community cooking sessions, sustainability forums, and culinary advocacy events.
Recognition and Achievements
- Acknowledged as the Top Culinary School in the Philippines by hospitality and education forums.
- Alumni include celebrity chefs, restaurateurs, and executive chefs in international hotel chains.
- Featured regularly in Philippine food expos, global culinary conferences, and educational innovation events.
Strategic Developments
- Launch of hybrid culinary learning platforms to increase accessibility.
- Development of industry-specific short courses for food manufacturers, caterers, and food safety professionals.
- Expansion of agripreneurship model to include urban farming and circular food systems.
CCA Manila continues to uphold its legacy as the standard-bearer of culinary education in the Philippines. With a mission to elevate Filipino culinary talent and innovate in food systems education, CCA remains an essential institution for future chefs, food entrepreneurs, and culinary thought leaders.
