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NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK—In a historic victory for Filipino talent, Abi Marquez clinched the People’s Voice Award for Social – Food and Drink at The 28th Annual Webby Awards, making her the first Filipino independent content creator to win the prestigious accolade.
This momentous occasion is not only a personal milestone for Marquez but also a significant cultural achievement, being the first time an individual entry from the Philippines has secured this category.
Dressed in a custom terno by Filipino designer Santi Obcena and styled by Pam Ricarte, Marquez took the stage at the iconic Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, where she accepted her award. In her poignant 5-word acceptance speech, she dedicated her victory to her homeland: “Philippines, this is for you!”
YouTube acceptance speech: Abi Marquez accepts her 28th Annual Webby Award #Webbys
Known affectionately as the “Lumpia Queen,” Marquez has captured the global food scene with her vibrant and innovative culinary content, predominantly featuring iterations of the beloved Filipino dish, lumpia or spring rolls. This award underscores her significant impact on the digital food community.
Within the Lumpia Queen’s radius: Harry Potter star James Phelps who accepted the Webby for mobile game Harry Potter Hogwarts Mystery, place card of culinary legend and one of Abi’s heroes Ina Garten, and fellow Webby winner and content creator Madison Tevlin whom Abi met at a prior Webbys function.
Marquez is also officially nominated for a 2024 James Beard Media Award, recognizing excellence in food-related social media accounts. The James Beard Awards are among the most prestigious honors in the US culinary and food media industries, highlighting leaders and innovators across the food system.
Represented by NYMA, the talent management arm of Kroma Entertainment, Marquez has found robust support in her professional endeavors. Kat Bautista, General Manager of NYMA, expressed her pride: “We are incredibly proud of Abi and her groundbreaking achievements. Her success at The Webby Awards and her nomination for a James Beard Media Award reflect her exceptional talent and our commitment at NYMA to support outstanding Filipino creators on the global stage.”
Marquez’s journey from a Hotel Restaurant and Institution Management student at the University of the Philippines to an international culinary sensation highlights her dedication and passion for bringing Filipino cuisine to the global stage. As the world continues to embrace diverse food cultures, her win at The Webby Awards serves as a beacon of inspiration and pride for the Philippines, showcasing the richness of its culinary heritage and sharing the Filipino culinary narrative worldwide.
