The Team
John Kevin Navoa
John Kevin Navoa, Nav as he is called, is a Culinary Arts alumnus of the KDU University College in Kuala Lumpur. After getting his degree, Malaysia’s bustling food scene proved to be the ideal training ground. His stint at one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants was his first formal foray into fine dining spun with an inherently local flair.
Thirdy Dolatre
Thirdy Dolatre is a graduate of the Center of Culinary Arts in Manila. Having first worked as a line cook in Manila, he then continued his training as a Stagiaire at some of San Francisco’s renowned Michelin-Star awarded restaurants.
Erin G. Recto
Erin completed her studies at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School - Torrens University Australia, and earned her Level 2 Award in Wines and Spirits from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust. She gained practical experience as an intern and Management Trainee at renowned hotel chains in Portugal, Sydney, and Melbourne, before joining the team as Hapag and AYÀ’s Operations Manager and Sommelier.
Kamille Cate
Sous Chef (Hapag)
Kamille is a graduate of the University of Sto. Tomas with a major in Hotel and Restaurant Management. After working as a line cook for several well-known names in the local dining industry, she now helms Hapag's dinner service as sous chef.
Dhan Mark Bergonia
Sous Chef (Hapag)
Dhan Mark's extensive experience as a steward and tournant in innovative and progressive Filipino fine dining restaurants led him to join Hapag. He expertly leads the lunch service as sous chef.
Athalie Tan
Sous Chef (AYÀ)
Athalie graduated from the University of the Philippines with a major in Food Technology and earned first honors at the International School for Culinary Arts and Hotel Management (ISCAHM). Her rich experience spans the international scene, having worked in esteemed culinary roles in both New York and Florida, USA. This global exposure has equipped Athalie with a diverse skill set and a unique perspective on culinary arts, making her a valuable asset to our team.
Maria Angelica Del Mundo
Restaurant Manager (Hapag)
Angel earned her degree from Southern Luzon State University. Her impressive resume boasts years of experience as a restaurant manager and guest experience lead, overseeing multiple popular casual dining chains and locally-grown concepts, before joining the Hapag team as Restaurant Manager.
Katrina Lacanilao
Restaurant Manager (AYÀ)
Kat completed her studies at Far Eastern University, Manila, where she majored in Hotel Restaurant Management. With eight years of experience in the hospitality industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge and practical skills to her role. Kat honed her expertise through significant positions at prestigious United States Country Clubs, including Paramount Country Club in New York and The Beach Club in Florida. Her extensive background in upscale hospitality environments makes her an invaluable addition to our team.
Careers
Thank you for your interest in joining our team.
You may send your resume at hello@hapagmnl.com and we’ll get in touch with you.