Francis Dave Lacson Selorio (Francis Lacson) from Mambusao, Capiz has earned international culinary recognition after winning the 2027 Michelin Young Chef Award.
His restaurant Digámo based in Marikina City was also included in the list of the Michelin-selected restaurants.
Lacson received both recognitions during the Michelin Guide Manila and Environs | Cebu 2027 ceremony last October 29, 2026 at the Manila Marriott Hotel.
The award, presented by WISK, recognizes emerging culinary talent and Lacson’s distinctive approach to Filipino cuisine.
A former seafarer, Lacson has built his culinary career around exploring Filipino food traditions, regional ingredients and the stories behind familiar dishes.
His journey from the maritime industry to professional cooking has given his work a perspective shaped by travel, research and personal experience.
Growing up in Mambusao among relatives who prepared food for community gatherings and town celebrations, Lacson developed an early connection to Capiz’s culinary heritage.
These experiences continue to influence his cooking, which combines historical research, childhood memories, and contemporary techniques.
Before becoming a Michelin awardee, Lacson started his culinary career by opening a restaurant with friends in Roxas City.
His achievements also extend beyond the kitchen. Lacson is a three-time recipient of the Doreen Gamboa Fernandez Food Writing Award including recognition for his essay “Linagpang: A Grilled Soup,” inspired by memories of his grandfather preparing the traditional dish in Mambusao.
Lacson also won the inaugural Doreen Gamboa Fernandez Food Video Award for “The Pusô You’ve Never Heard Of,” a short film exploring the rice delicacy’s place in Panay’s food heritage.
For Capiz, Lacson’s achievement brings renewed attention to the province’s food traditions and the people who preserve them. His growing recognition on the national culinary stage demonstrates how regional memories, ingredients and cooking practices can contribute to a wider appreciation of Filipino cuisine.
Lacson’s latest honor places a chef shaped by Capiz’s community cooking traditions among the emerging talents recognized by the Michelin Guide.
Lacson is a graduate of Capiz National High School in Roxas City and John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University in Iloilo City.
Caption
Mambusao-native Francis Dave Lacson Selorio (Francis Lacson) wins the 2027 Michelin Young Chef Award. (Photo courtesy of Department of Tourism)
