Food

Bold local flavors across Iloilo’s streets lead festivalgoers to reach for an ice-cold Coke, completing every delicious food find at the festival. Photo credit: Maiko Bryan Diesto (Drinking Nose on Facebook)

Almost two weeks after the final drum beats subsided, Iloilo is still buzzing with the excitement of Dinagyang 2026. This year was more than just a festival appearance for Coca-Cola Philippines; it was a celebration of the company’s long-standing ties to the province, which go back to the late 1940s.

Coca-Cola celebrated the Ilonggo spirit it has been serving for almost 80 years by putting a strong emphasis on community and culture, acting as a true local partner rooted in the streets.

A Legacy of ‘Lasang Lokal’

At the heart of Dinagyang is the food. The Coca-Cola Food Fest at Delgado Street and Megaworld Mandurriao turned street-side dining into a cultural highlight. By pairing ice-cold Coca-Cola™ with local favorites, the brand celebrated the ‘Lasang Lokal’ (local taste) that defines the city’s famous food scene.

This connection is long-standing. Since the company established its Iloilo operations in the 1940s, Coca-Cola has been a staple at family mealtimes and in the sari-sari stores found in every corner of the community.

A Stage for Local Pride

Since the Dinagyang Festival officially began in 1968, Coca-Cola has been an active participant in this 50-year-old tradition. This year, Coke Studio™ honored this shared history by spotlighting homegrown talent. Iloilo’s very own Mary Anjolie and Your X Boyfriends shared the stage with popular national acts like Ena Mori and Over October – a high-energy celebration of Filipino music, and a quiet nod to the Ilonggo soul.

Local and rising OPM artists lit up the Coke Studio concert, bringing high-energy performances and collaborations to the streets of Iloilo. Relive the moments here.

Fun Live Experiences for the Next Generation

To match the festival’s high energy, Coca-Cola created interactive spaces for Gen Zs, the country’s new culture creators.

Festivalgoers savor the delicious taste of Royal at the Royal Booth through playful games and shared moments.

The Royal™ Booth at Megaworld Boulevard offered ‘Mwah-sarap’ fun moments where festivalgoers engaged in Snap N’ Slay photo challenges. Meanwhile, the Lift® Zone, dedicated to the new drink that fits your every mode, hosted fast-paced games for those with a competitive streak.

LIFT brings its challenger spirit to Dinagyang as participants take on fast-paced challenges and push their limits.

A Cleaner Way to Celebrate

True partnership means taking a fair share in keeping communities clean. Through the Coca-Cola Tapon to Ipon program – a nationwide collection initiative for PET bottles – Coca-Cola set up collection points across Iloilo City to ensure recyclable plastic (PET) bottles were recovered instead of becoming litter.

Festivalgoers take part in Coca-Cola Philippines’ Tapon to Ipon initiative, encouraging proper PET bottle disposal and promoting responsible celebration during Dinagyang.

Festivalgoers were encouraged to exchange empty plastic bottles for Coca-Cola products. The goal is to divert these collected PET bottles to PETValue Philippines*, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility. PETValue then turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging. The initiative proves that Filipinos can – and should – enjoy grand traditions while actively participating in keeping their communities clean.

Rooted Locally

“Dinagyang is all about people coming together, and that’s what makes it special,” said Frenissa Lagman, Frontline Sr. Marketing Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “Our history with Iloilo goes back to the late 1940s. Being part of the local celebrations for over 50 years means adding real value to the experience, whether through music, food, or supporting the community’s goals of keeping festivals clean.”

Coca-Cola’s involvement at Dinagyang 2026 serves as a reminder that brands can be more than simply a name on a sign; they can be a local partner and an important part of the city’s story as Iloilo resumes its everyday routine.

Visit www.coca-cola.com or follow the official Coca-Cola Philippines sites on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.

NOTE:

*PETValue Philippines, a joint venture between Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP) and Indorama Ventures, turns post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging. It is located at General Trias, Cavite.

Coca-Cola Philippines employees join tree-planting activity at La Mesa Watershed.

On December 17, 2025, Coca-Cola Philippines staff members participated in a tree-planting event at La Mesa Dam with the Million Trees Foundation, demonstrating the company’s dedication to sustainability through active involvement. The initiative demonstrated how community involvement and corporate involvement may contribute to the preservation of one of Metro Manila’s most vital water sources.

Employees of Coca-Cola Philippines gathered to plant native seedlings at the Million Trees Nursery and Eco Learning Center in Quezon City’s La Mesa Watershed. The program is a component of the broader Annual Million Trees Challenge (AMTC), a long-term watershed rehabilitation initiative that started under the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and is currently being maintained by the Million Trees Foundation, Inc. (MTFI) with the objective of planting an additional 10 million trees by 2030.

Coca-Cola Philippines employee volunteers plant native seedlings as part of ongoing reforestation efforts.

La Mesa Dam is Metro Manila’s primary watershed and one of the remaining major forest reserves in the region. Its protection is essential to ensuring clean, stable water supply for the capital. Reforestation efforts—especially those that focus on tree-growing, not just tree-planting—contribute to soil conservation, improved groundwater recharge, and long-term ecological resilience.

“The strength of the Million Trees Initiative comes from collective effort. When partners like Coca-Cola Philippines show up on the ground, it accelerates our work to restore critical watersheds like La Mesa,” Mr. Melandrew T. Velasco, Million Trees Foundation Inc, President and Executive Director, “Each seedling planted today is part of a bigger commitment to protect the ecosystems that support millions of Filipinos.”

MTFI President and Executive Director Melandrew T. Velasco, together with Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario and Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability Senior Director Maria Christine Garcia, joined the tree-growing orientation before the tree-planting activity, where they learned proper tree-planting techniques and sustainable practices for watershed conservation.

For employee volunteers, the activity was a meaningful way to take part in environmental protection while gaining a deeper appreciation of watershed stewardship — a core focus of the company’s Sustainability Matters campaign.  “Today proved that sustainability is about action — and that small efforts become meaningful when we work as one.” said Maria Christine Garcia, Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability of Coca-Cola Philippines.

Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for Franchise Operations East of Coca-Cola Far East Limited (CCFEL), underscored how employee volunteerism strengthens the company’s sustainability goals.

“Our sustainability journey is grounded in strong partnerships, long-term commitments, and the dedication of our people. Initiatives like this underscore the vital role each of us plays in safeguarding essential resources such as the La Mesa Watershed,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines and Vice President for Franchise Operations East of Coca-Cola Far East Limited. “This activity reflects our broader commitment to environmental stewardship and to collaborating with communities and partners to create lasting, meaningful impact.”

The public can visit www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/sustainable to find out more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ sustainability initiatives.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Ajinomoto Group, a well-being leader in Southeast Asia for over 50 years, today announced its official Gold Sponsorship of the 33rd SEA Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games, both of which Thailand will host later this year. This collaboration builds on the success of the regional ASEAN Victory Project®, already active in several ASEAN countries. Through this initiative, Ajinomoto delivers nutrition support powered by ‘AminoScience’ to enhance athletic performance while honoring local food cultures to promote health and well-being.

Dr. Gongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand and Board Member and Assistant General Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the 33rd SEA Games 2025 and the 13th Asian Para Games 2025, said that this year’s SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games are held under the theme “Ever Forward, Create Pride Together,” reflecting a shared commitment to progress through unity and cooperation toward collective advancement as one ASEAN region. He expressed his honor in partnering with the Ajinomoto Group, a global leader in food and nutrition, noting their shared vision to promote sports nutrition and well-being across ASEAN and emphasizing that proper nutrition is essential in helping athletes reach their full potential and succeed on the global stage. He added that this collaboration marks a significant regional milestone that enhances athletic performance, promotes balanced nutrition, preserves cultural traditions, supports economic growth, improves quality of life, and encourages the ASEAN community to prioritize health.

Mr. Ichiro Sakakura, President of Ajinomoto SEA Regional Headquarters Co., Ltd. and President of Ajinomoto Co., (Thailand) Ltd. added, “Ajinomoto Group has a long-standing legacy and deep commitment to supporting ASEAN. We are proud to serve as the Gold Sponsor of the 33^rd SEA Games and 13^th ASEAN Para Games. These events are more than just sporting spectacles, they are profound symbols of the passion, dedication, and unity that defines the people of this region. Our support includes providing nutritional assistance to sports associations, athletes, and sports academies in several countries under the ASEAN Victory Project®.”

“As a pioneer in amino acid research, we leverage our proprietary ‘AminoScience’ to deliver on our promise of ‘Eat Well, Live Well.’ through a wide array of products and solutions that improve lives. We have applied over 20 years of ongoing expertise in the sports sector across our Southeast Asian subsidiaries. Now in its eighth year, the ASEAN Victory Project® empowers athletes to achieve their peak performance. This initiative includes nutritional support for national sports associations, athletes, and sports academies. In addition to amino acid-based products such as ‘aminoVITAL®,’ we also provide comprehensive nutritional guidance and promote our Winning Meals Kachimeshi® program, which integrates seamlessly with ASEAN’s diverse culinary cultures.”

In Thailand, the Winning Meals Kachimeshi® program has been adapted in collaboration with the Sports Authority of Thailand we support the renovation of the Ajinomoto Victory Canteen, a dining and activity space for Thai national athletes. The initiative combines nutrition education with well-being support to help athletes reach their full potential.

In keeping with this ethos, the SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games foster camaraderie and unity throughout ASEAN in addition to encouraging young people to lead healthy lifestyles. Ajinomoto Group is pleased to contribute to the regional realization of the “Eat Well, Live Well” concept through the power of sport and science-based nutrition.

The Winning Meals Kachimeshi® program provides wholesome, delectable meals to athletes throughout intense training and competitions. It uses items like AJI-NO-MOTO®, RosDee®, Takumi Aji®, and YumYum® to make menus that are carefully tailored to the many ASEAN culinary traditions.

There is just one day left to savor the flavors of Noche Buena at Estancia de Lorenzo!

Christmas is almost here! Tomorrow, Estancia de Lorenzo will host Pasko Salubong, an evening that will thrill both foodies and holiday enthusiasts.

A supper buffet at Lorenzo’s Modern Filipino Cuisine, which features a variety of Modern Filipino foods influenced by Noche Buena mainstays, is the focal point of the celebration. Customers can enjoy classic flavors that have been updated with a modern touch, making for an intriguing and familiar dining experience.

Please visit Estancia de Lorenzo’s main social media accounts for reservations and full information. Make sure you follow the Facebook page of Estancia de Lorenzo, which has been verified.

Avoid doing business with any Facebook sites that aren’t legitimate and verified for your own safety. Please only use their official website for all transactions.

 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/estanciadelorenzorizal

 Instagram:  @estanciadelorenzo.official

 TikTok:  Estancia de Lorenzo Rizal

 Website:  estanciadelorenzo.ph

Experience  the  flavors,  excitement,  and  warmth  of  Filipino  Christmas  tomorrow at  Estancia  de  Lorenzo. 

Right in the heart of Tomas Morato in Quezon City, touted as the “Entertainment Capital of the Philippines,” lies The Tribute Hotel Quezon City, a chic and comfy hotel quietly making its mark as one of the city’s newest lifestyle destinations for staycations or dazzling celebrations.

An establishment that blends comfort, thoughtful design, and a sense of ease that feels both modern, welcoming, and rejuvenating, The Tribute Hotel had its soft opening in November 2024. Since then, the hotel has been drawing attention for offering a refined yet relaxed stay experience in one of Quezon City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

With a design that eyes both business and leisure travelers, The Tribute Hotel offers well-appointed rooms that balance function and comfort. Currently available for booking are the Deluxe Room and Superior Twin Room, both equipped with lifestyle essentials such as flat-screen TVs, unlimited Wi-Fi, safety deposit boxes, mini refrigerators, kettles, and complete bathroom amenities.

Deluxe Rooms, on the other hand, come with a bathtub and the option of twin or queen beds at the same rate, while Superior Twin Rooms feature a sleek shower setup. Guests also enjoy access to the hotel’s pool, gym facilities, and breakfast for two already included in published rates. A larger Junior Suite is set to open next year, expanding the hotel’s offerings even further.

Beyond its rooms, The Tribute Hotel positions itself as a versatile venue for gatherings of all kinds. Its three function rooms—Ibiza, Valencia, and Mallorca—are designed to host everything from intimate meetings to milestone celebrations. Ibiza, the largest at 165 square meters, can accommodate up to 120 guests, while Valencia and Mallorca offer more intimate settings for smaller groups. Banquet menus are curated by the hotel’s in-house kitchen, with flexible options tailored to different budgets and occasions.

Adding to the hotel’s lifestyle appeal is Don Tomas, its signature restaurant, which serves Spanish fusion cuisine in a stylish yet approachable setting. Here, classic Spanish flavors are reimagined with modern touches, making it a go-to spot for both hotel guests and local diners. This holiday season, The Tribute Hotel also rolls out special Christmas buffet dinners on December 24 and 31, priced at Php 2,000 nett per person, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

As a new player in Quezon City’s hospitality scene, The Tribute Hotel QC is carving out its niche by offering more than just a place to stay. With its central location, thoughtful amenities, flexible event spaces, and growing dining experiences, it presents itself as a destination where stays, celebrations, and everyday moments feel effortlessly well put together.

The Tribute Hotel Quezon City is located at 99 Scout Gandia, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Tomas Morato, Quezon City. For bookings and reservations, visit the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages, email [email protected], or call 0977 203 3805.

A festive peek at the hotel’s future as a social hotspot

Over the weekend, the hotel offered a glimpse of its potential as a social hub when it hosted the annual Christmas gathering of the Filipino Bloggers Network (FBN), a prestigious group of some of the country’s most recognized members of the blogging community.

The celebration unfolded as a relaxed, convivial evening—filled with shared stories, good food, and laughter—reflecting the kind of warm, community-driven experiences the hotel aims to create. Rather than a formal affair, the night felt like a reunion, made more memorable by the hotel’s attentive service and comfortable, inviting spaces.

The FBN also extends its heartfelt thanks to all the generous sponsors for their invaluable support in making the FBN Christmas gathering a success. Their partnership, contributions, and unwavering commitment helped bring the celebration to life and created a memorable experience for everyone involved. The group truly appreciates the trust and collaboration, and will be looking forward to more meaningful partnerships in the future.

As SM Supermalls ushers in a daring new era with changing treasures particularly for you, this month represents a new chapter for Davao.

With the opening of its Expansion Building, SM City Davao, the first and biggest SM mall in Mindanao, offers every Davaoeño new urban experiences. Every location, from chic hangouts to Instagram-worthy dining scenarios, is created with feed goals in mind.

With more than 120,000 square meters of additional space, this is more than just an expansion—it’s a dynamic location designed to bring fashion, shopping, and leisure together in ways you’ve never seen before. This demonstrates that we at SM Supermalls genuinely have everything you need.

Dining Hotspots Ready to Serve You

Hungry? You’re in for a culinary treat as we bring you a lineup of handpicked restaurants serving everything from casual fine dining to comforting Filipino classics and bold Singaporean flavors.

• Brique– If there’s one thing our bisaya brothers from Cebu know best, it’s good food! Bringing their distinctly Cebuano flavors for the first time in Davao, Brique—soon to open at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion—combines modern cuisine with a provincial touch that’ll fondly remind you of nanay’s home cooking.
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• Nanyang – For the first time in Davao, get the best of what Singapore has to offer. Serving some of Southeast Asia’s finest delicacies, Nanyang at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion, delivers hearty dishes that cater to the Filipino palate. From aromatic Laksa to savory Curry Chicken Rice, the possibilities are endless.

The Joy of Fluffiness

Making its first mark in Davao, Puffy’s is bringing its signature charm to the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Known for its cloud-like soufflé pancakes, this sweet spot is the newest must-try in SM Supermall’s irresistibly crave-worthy lineup. Whether you go for Original, Crème Brûlée, or Tiramisu, every bite is delightfully light and perfectly Instagrammable!

Your Unique Finds

Looking to add a little more everyday flair? From customizing your Aquaflask tumbler to finally grabbing that self-help book you’ve been eyeing—or even spotting that one item you didn’t know you needed—discover a specially chosen mix of finds to make your every visit more exciting.

• Aquaflask– Find their newest designs at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion and drink in style! Now fully customizable, these vacuum-insulated bottles let you enjoy your cold or hot drinks anywhere without breaking the bank.
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• Gashapon Bandai – Collect high-quality gacha toys, keychains, and accessories while having a bit of thrill—or dismay—with the first Gashapon Bandai in Davao at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion. From Dragon Ball and Gundam to Demon Slayer and Pokémon, just pop a coin into these vending machines and score a surprise collectible.
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• Fully Booked– For the first time in Davao, a true bookworm’s haven awaits. Find your next great read as you experience a warm, cozy ambiance here at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion. Featuring a wide selection of books across various genres—including hard-to-find titles—Fully Booked is a true bibliophile haven.
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• Flying Tiger – In search of unique knick-knacks and quirky finds? For the first time in Davao, Flying Tiger at the 2nd Level, Main Mall Expansion is the novelty store for you. Liven up your living space and personalize your room with their playful crafts, trinkets, and ornaments.

Level Up Your Style

Who says activewear has to be drab? For the first time in Davao, Anta at the 1st Level, Main Mall Expansion lets you turn the gym into your personal runway. Featuring a premium sports line of ready-to-wear apparel, trainers, and bags, it’s everything you need to break a sweat—in style!

Every area is designed to enhance the aesthetics of your feed, from accessories and funny objects to fashion finds and food hotspots that will make you drool. Enjoy carefully chosen experiences here in this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls, not just to enjoy but to share, regardless of how you spend your time.

For the most recent information and activities, don’t forget to check www.smsupermalls.com or like and follow @smsupermalls on social media!