At US-themed buffet, US ambassador to PHL opts for halo-halo for dessert

US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim has ticked off another item on his list of must-tries in the country: eat halo-halo — that inescapable local dessert made of shaved ice, milk, fruits, and other sweetened toppings.

The Pinoy favorite was served at The Cafe in Hyatt City of Dreams in Manila, where Kim was invited to sample premium US beef, lamb, and pork prepared by Texas-based Chef Jay McCarthy on Friday.

Despite the American-themed food fest, Kim paused to try the halo-halo (which literally translates to "mix-mix") when he passed by it in the buffet, after some encouragement from US Embassy staff.

Instead of the typically prepared set of toppings in a tall glass of halo-halo, Kim was handed a bowl of shaved ice and given the freedom to choose his ingredients.

US Ambassador to the PHL Sung Kim helps himself to halo-halo pic.twitter.com/QnEVcub2CU

— Jessica Bartolome (@jacbartolome) May 6, 2017

Kim turned out game about the whole thing and by the looks of it, enjoyed it, too.

This was the second time the US diplomat had tried the local dessert.

The American-themed food festival "Maytime Mains with Chef Jay McCarthy" runs until Sunday, May 7. — MDM, GMA News