‘MasterChef Asia’ to premiere on Sept. 3; three Pinoys vie for title

The world’s most popular culinary competition finally comes to the Philippines, and the rest of Asia, when MasterChef Asia premieres on the Lifetime cable channel on September 3 at 9 p.m. 

Fifteen home cooks from different parts of the continent are set to test their kitchen skills and talents in the hopes of becoming the first titleholder in Asia, and three Filipinos are vying for the title, all in the name of national pride.

Jake Aycardo, Lica Ibarra and Rico Amancio are set for an explosive battle with fellow amateur cooks from China, India, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. They are to be mentored and judged by three of the best culinary masters in the continent: multi-awarded chef Susur Lee, Michelin-starred chef Bruno Ménard and former MasterChef Australia finalist Audra Morrice.

Set to be one of the most awaited television events of the season, MasterChef Asia promises episode after episode of thrilling culinary faceoffs as the show brings the rich and exotic qualities of Asian cuisine to the fore.

It also serves as an excellent avenue to explore the different culinary traditions of the continent, as each contestant brings varied takes on new and well-loved dishes that are sure to take the judges and audiences to new delicious discoveries.

“MasterChef Asia is the biggest original production we’ve ever undertaken on Lifetime Asia. Producing one of the world’s most successful formats is testament to Lifetime being a leading entertainment destination in the region,” A+E Networks Asia Senior Vice President for Programming & Production Michele Schofield said.

“There is a wonderful range of culinary creations made by the amateur cooks and a lot of moments have (brought) me to the edge of my seat. With the passion for food we have in Asia, we believe audiences will love the show and root for their favorite contestants,” she added.

The winner of the competition will receive his or her very own cookbook, $50,000 in cash, $10,000 worth of leisure experiences in Singapore, $15,000 worth of Panasonic home appliances, a paid internship at one of Carlton Hotel Singapore’s restaurants, and a one-week stay at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

For more information, visit msn.com/masterchefasia.