Edward Gallagher of Ireland emerges as the pioneering champion of “Pearl of Three Waters – The Philippine Oyster Shucking Challenge”, presented by Newport World Resorts and Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts. Internationally recognized Master Écaillers from France and Ireland competed head-to-head to vie for the title on 17 April 2026 at the Newport Mall Plaza. Legris and Gallagher oysters, a steak dish and sparkling drink were served to VIP guests, Epic Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy members after the competition. The event was hosted by visiting US-based Filipino-American showbiz royalty Donita Rose, and entertainment courtesy of international singer and author Felson Palad.
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| Edward Gallagher of Ireland (center) emerges as the pioneering champion of “Pearl of Three Waters – The Philippine Oyster Shucking Competition”, an event presented by Newport World Resorts and Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts. Gallagher competed against Lea Fouquet of France. Marriott International – The Philippines Area General Manager Bruce Winton (4th from left) hands over to Gallagher the commemorative oyster trophy made out of recycled chopsticks produced by ChopValue Philippines. Also in photo (L-R) ChopValue Managing Director Tim Ng and Newport World Resorts SVP for Marketing Mitch Suarez. |
Oyster Shucking Challenge kicked-off the special promo of the multi-awarded Marriott Café, the all-day dining restaurant of the Michelin-guide-listed Manila Marriott Hotel dubbed, “Pear of Three Waters”, a buffet dinner with unlimited premium oysters from France (Legris), Ireland (Gallagher) and the Philippines prominently included in the buffet dinner spread for Php 3,499 nett per person. This promo is available every Saturday starting on 18 April 2026.
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| Marriott Café, the all-day dining restaurant of the Marriott Hotel |
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| An exquisite buffet dinner featuring a curated oyster bar, offering unlimited servings of French Legris, Irish Gallagher, and premium local Philippine harvests. |
In terms of flavors, the Legris oysters of France’s flavor profile is a direct result of Lilia’s exceptional marine environment and the know-how with which they are grown. It takes 3 to 5 years for them to reach the size at which they can be sold and relished. On the other hand, the Gallagher oysters of Ireland, also known as “Umami Bombs” are known for their perfect balance of rich, sweet and nutty creaminess, grown in mineral-potent Donegal waters for 30 months.
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| Hailing from the shores of Brittany, Lea Fouquet combines a master’s in Management with a profound passion for the sea. |
About the contestants: Lea Fouquet, a 27-year-old lady from Brittany holds a bachelor’s degree in Languages, specializing in English and Spanish, as well as a master’s degree in Management and International Business. In her spare time, she enjoys playing handball. Her passion for the sea and oysters led her to work with Legris farm in France, known for its premium oyster selections supplied to some of the finest restaurants around the world including Marriott Café and Cru Steakhouse. Fouquet competed with 52-year-old Edward Gallagher who runs the “Irish Premium Oysters” aquaculture empire in Ireland, and has been running the business for over 35 years. Edward at 16 years old took up a degree in agriculture. After graduation he went full time managing the oyster farming/aquaculture business. His company has been exporting to Asian countries for over 25 years now.
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| Edward Gallagher is the owner of "Irish Premium Oysters" and a 35-year veteran of the Irish aquaculture scene. |
For more information about Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts, call (632) 8988 9999 or visit www.manilamarriott.com. Stay updated on their latest offers by following @manilamarriott on Facebook and Instagram.
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