Bringing world-class cheese expertise to the Philippines
Cheese lovers, rejoice! The USA Cheese Guild has officially brought its USA Cheese Specialist™ Certification Program to the Philippines — marking another milestone in culinary education for aspiring Filipino chefs. Originally launched in Singapore, this globally recognized program continues its Southeast Asian expansion, equipping culinary students and professionals with expert-level knowledge about one of the world’s most beloved ingredients.
USA Cheese Specialist™ Certification Program at CCA Manila
The Center for Culinary Arts (CCA Manila) has partnered with the USA Cheese Guild to integrate a three-tiered certification program—Associate, Intermediate, and Advanced—into its second-year culinary curriculum. Through this, students gain in-depth insights into cheese families, proper storage and handling, and even artisanal cheesemaking.
More importantly, it empowers them to use cheese as a creative and functional ingredient, elevating Filipino classics with a global twist. Imagine your favorite baked spaghetti, kaldereta, or puto with just the right touch of rich, creamy U.S. cheese!
Investing in the future of Filipino culinary talent
According to Dali Ghazalay, Regional Director for Southeast Asia of the USA Cheese Guild, the partnership is more than just about teaching techniques—it’s about nurturing creative mindsets.
“By working directly with culinary students, we’re investing in the future of the food industry in the Philippines,” Ghazalay explained. “The USA Cheese Specialist™ certification isn’t just a credential — it’s a creative mindset that inspires chefs to treat cheese as a transformative ingredient.”
For Dr. Veritas Luna, Chancellor of CCA Manila, the collaboration supports the school’s mission to promote international standards and continuous faculty development.
“This milestone partnership with the USA Cheese Guild enhances our commitment to global culinary excellence and gives our students a competitive edge, both locally and abroad,” she shared.
Why USA Cheese stands out
Cheese from the USA blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, using high-quality cow’s milk and sustainable farming practices. The U.S. is the world’s largest single-country producer and exporter of cheese, offering countless varieties that deliver superior flavor, performance, and quality — perfect for both home cooks and professional chefs.
Cheese education beyond the classroom
Even if you’re not enrolled in CCA, you can still explore the flavorful world of USA Cheese in your own kitchen!
Use cheese with purpose – Grated cheese melts beautifully in Filipino favorites like baked pasta and casseroles, while crumbled cheese adds texture to salads or roasted veggies. Try U.S. Monterey Jack for creaminess or U.S. Pepper Jack for a buttery, spicy twist.
Add nutrition, not just flavor – Cheese is rich in protein, calcium, and healthy fats, and aged varieties are naturally low in lactose.
Reimagine Filipino desserts – Top your puto with melted U.S. Monterey Jack or make creamy desserts using U.S. Cream Cheese. You can even serve a dessert cheeseboard with local fruits, nuts, and a cup of tsokolate for a unique treat.
Discover USA Cheese in the Philippines
Through partnerships with local importers and retailers, USA Cheese is becoming more accessible than ever in supermarkets and specialty stores across the country.
Follow @cheesefromtheusa.sea on Instagram and Facebook for delicious recipes, cheesy tips, and updates on upcoming workshops and events.
Experience the versatility and world-class quality of USA Cheese and bring a taste of global innovation right into your Filipino kitchen.