Renowned chef-restaurateur Margarita Forés' cause of death confirmed by family
The family of beloved chef-restaurateur Margarita Forés, who passed away at 65, shared more details about her sudden death.
In a statement sent to PhilSTAR L!fe on Saturday, Feb. 15, her family said she died on the morning of Feb. 11 in Hong Kong.
"Her death was reported as due to cardiac arrest," they added.
"My mom touched so many lives," her son, Amado, said. "Thank you all for the love and support you have given me and my family during this difficult time. Your kindness and the memories you've shared about my mom give me comfort and strength."
"Her passion, precision, and generosity defined her. The flavors she loved, the standards she set, and the lives she touched will endure because Margarita never just cooked; she transformed," the statement read.
Details about the memorial services will be shared by her family "at the appropriate time."
The passing of the award-winning chef was announced by Amado in an Instagram post on Feb. 11.
"Our family is mourning this unexpected loss, and we kindly ask for your prayers during this time," he wrote.
Margarita ran a variety of restaurants in the country and was named Asia's Best Female Chef in 2016.
The Filipino chef grew up in Manila but eventually moved to New York City with her family when she was in college.
While she initially finished with a degree in accountancy, Margarita kickstarted her culinary career when she went to Italy in 1986 and studied under three chefs to master Italian cuisine.
Margarita started in the industry as a caterer, having created the company Cibo Di M. This eventually fostered her first Cibo restaurant in 1997 where customers enjoyed a wide range of authentic Italian dishes.
The brand now has more than 30 locations across the Philippines.
In addition to the Cibo chain, she also owned other restaurants: Lusso, Grace Park, and Alta.
What is cardiac arrest? Check out PhilSTAR L!fe's explainer—which includes its description, symptoms, and prevention tips—here.
