Instructor

Benilia “Chef Lea” Besana (Legaspi) is a seasoned professional with a rich background in customer service and a fervent dedication to excellence. With over 23 years of experience, she has honed her skills in delivering top-notch customer satisfaction through effective people engagement.

Transitioning from her successful career in customer service, Benilia has embarked on a new journey as a full-time chef and entrepreneur, running her catering business, Cooking Ina’s Kitchen, and managing Celebrate Life “The Event Planner.” She is also a published author, having recently released an e-cookbook titled “Cooking Ina’s Kitchen Book 1 My First 100 Blogs” on Amazon.com.

In addition to her culinary ventures, Benilia is a familiar face on television, regularly appearing as a guest chef on popular morning shows such as Good Morning Kuya, Umagang Kay Ganda, and Sabrina’s Kitchen. She is also actively involved in trade show demo cooking at various food expos, trade centers, and malls.

Benilia's passion for promoting Filipino cuisine extends beyond borders, as she has conducted international master classes in restaurants across Saint Petersburg and Moscow, Russia, celebrating the 40th Friendship Day between the Philippines and Russia.

Educationally, Benilia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Foreign Service Major in Diplomacy from the Lyceum of the Philippines, along with specialized training in call center operations and project management from De La Salle University. She has furthered her culinary expertise through the Fundamentals in Culinary Arts program at the International School for Culinary Arts Hotel Management (ISCAHM).

As an experienced educator, Benilia has served as a senior high school Chef Instructor at STI Parañaque and Treston International School, as well as a college faculty member at Southville Institute of Tourism. She is a certified TESDA Accredited Trainer and Assessor for qualifications in Cookery NCII, Bread and Pastry Production NC II, and Customer Services NC II. Additionally, she holds certifications as a Food Safety Compliance Officer (FoodShap) and actively advocates for food safety practices.

Currently based in Naga City, Benilia continues to share her expertise as a Culinary Instructor at Apicius Culinary Arts and Hotel Management Inc., inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals with her passion and knowledge.