[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)]
[Senate]
[Page S2925]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]



              Tribute to Rhoda Magbitang and Lee Anne Wong

  Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, I join everyone in Hawaii in 
congratulating chefs Rhoda Magbitang and Lee Anne Wong on their recent 
wins on ``Top Chef'' and ``Last Chef Standing.'' Both chefs displayed 
incredible skill and perseverance in their respective competitions and 
showcased what makes Hawaii's food scene so special, with our unique 
blend of cultures and cuisines. I continue to think Hawaii is among the 
best eating places on the planet. I am so proud of both of them.
  Chef Magbitang, who was born and raised in the Philippines and now 
lives in Waimea on the Big Island, paid tribute to her roots, sharing 
her take on classic Filipino dishes that she grew up eating.
  Meanwhile, Chef Wong completed 24 challenges in 24 hours, winning 
with an ahi tuna dish prepared in a French-Japanese fusion style. Chef 
Wong's restaurant, Papa'aina at the Pioneer Inn in Lahaina, was 
destroyed in the fires 3 years ago, but her cooking, infused all over 
with local ingredients and produce, lives on at Koko Head Cafe on 
O'ahu.
  We are so lucky to have her and Chef Magbitang and so many other 
outstanding chefs who make Hawaii, Hawaii.
  Congratulations on your wins. You have made Hawaii proud.