5 Pinay HSWs in Singapore write own cookbook

MANILA, Philippines — A cookbook authored by Filipino household helpers in Singapore is now a bestseller.

The cookbook, “Family Favorites,” written by Lita Patricio, Jomarcy Bebida, Rose Buenvenida, Carina Rebuya and Jetky Marie Amores, has sold hundreds of copies, mostly through the expatriate network in Singapore.

The book, published by Make History Pte. Ltd. in November last year, features 50 delicious recipes that were tried and tested by the five Filipino household workers. 

The last chapter of the book showcases the favorite family recipes of professional chefs of top restaurants in Singapore – BAM!, Gattopardo, Chef’s Table and PS. Café.

“Recognizing the abundant talent of our kababayan wherever they may be, whether in the Philippines or abroad such as Singapore, the embassy is happy to support the continued promotion of this creative culinary venture. I hope all Filipinos in Singapore will have a chance to grab a copy,” Ambassador Joseph del Mar Yap said in a statement.

“A cookbook filled with easy, fun and delicious recipes that can be cooked for families and friends. For new helpers, for helpers that are looking for new inspiration and for families moving onwards,” the authors were quoted by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) as saying. 

Part of the proceeds from the sale of the cookbook goes to the Humanitarian Organization for Migration Economics Academy, a civil society organization in Singapore that provides vocational training for migrant domestic workers. The authors are volunteers of the academy.

Other proceeds will go to an investment fund that the authors will use to set up a restaurant and cooking school in the Philippines once they retire as overseas workers, the DFA said.