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WASHINGTON–Excellence and overcoming challenges were the themes when White House Chef Cristeta Pasia Comerford accepted her Award for Culinary Excellence here on October 3.

Ambassador Willy C. Gaa called Comerford an inspiration for Filipinos back home, who have to rebuild their lives and homes after two recent typhoons. Gaa, who hosted the event at his official residence, said the evening was about “the celebration of achievement and dedication to excellence.”

Gaa presented the award from the Philippine-based Mama Sita Foundation, whose goals include sustainable agriculture. Foundation president Clarita Reyes Lapus presented a certificate honoring Comerford. The award is named after her late mother, Teresita Reyes. Comerford told over 70 guests it was “really humbling how every time I come to the community that you’ve really honored me, and accepted me.”

Eldest Reyes granddaughter, Chef Vicky Rose Pacheco, Comerford’s former schoolmate, planned and cooked the dinner menu, which included the popular adobo (marinated chicken). The Reyes clan is famous for its food mixes and restaurant business.

In 2005, First Lady Laura Bush chose then assistant chef Comerford from hundreds of top chefs nationwide, making her the first woman and the first Asian American named to the post. First Lady Michelle Obama reappointed her to the position.