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Beauty, Food, Lifestyle

Cebu’s Greatest New Firsts: Tiny Getaways Designed Just for You

Metro Cebu greets you this month with tasty treats, entertaining discoveries, and welcoming new locations. Long weekends are a great opportunity to try something new because they give you more time to relax, whether you’re slowing down, rejuvenating your routine, or just in need of a quick bite.

Evolving finds are waiting for you in this daring new era of SM Supermalls, where everything has been carefully chosen to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re lounging alone or hanging out with friends. We genuinely have everything you need at SM Supermalls, so these new experiences—from food to lifestyle—are here to make ordinary times in the places you already adore even more memorable.

Where Delight Awaits You in SM City Cebu

In the heart of the city, SM City Cebu keeps things exciting with spaces and experiences that feel fresh. Its expanded mix features curated brands, exceptional dining, and premium finds—all handpicked to fit the way you shop, connect, and relax. From carefully selected lifestyle picks to specially chosen finds, here are a few worth checking out to make your next visit even more memorable.

Smart Home Innovations

  • Dyson – This first in Cebu is ready to turn your everyday chore into something you’ll actually look forward to! Step into a world of sleek design and smart technology here at SM City Cebu—where tasks, from cleaning to hairstyling, will feel less like a chore and more like a treat. From effortless hair styling to powerful home must-haves, we’re all about making your life smoother, smarter, and a little more stylish.

Italian Favorites

  • Cibo – Craving the kind of comfort only a perfectly twirled forkful of pasta can give? We’ve got you. At Cibo in SM City Cebu, you’ll find Italian classics made the way they should be—fresh, flavorful, and timeless. From hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas to refreshing salads and signature desserts, consider your taste buds officially on a holiday—no passport required!

Bookworm Picks

  • Fully Booked x Kinokuniya– Open a new chapter at the Second Level of SM City Cebu with the first-ever Fully Booked x Kinokuniya in Cebu. Step into a world of stories and ideas—where Japanese-language titles, bestselling novels, and timeless classics meet creative journals, unique stationery, and lifestyle treasures. Every shelf invites you to discover something new, spark your imagination, and take inspiration home with you.

Your Gateway to the Unexpected at SM Seaside City Cebu

With its stunning seaside views, SM Seaside City Cebu sets the stage for experiences that feel a little out of the ordinary. From standout dining with breathtaking backdrops to unique stores and activities that will make your long weekend even more exciting, each stop is here to bring something unexpected to your day. Check out these picks worth discovering on your next day out.

Authentic Bites

  • Co. Limited – Craving a little thrill on your plate? The wait is over—Co. Limited is bringing the vibrant flavors and energy of Thai street food to Cebu for the very first time. Opening September 30 at SM City Cebu, get ready to savor bold bites and an experience you won’t forget. With a fresh pairing of elevated touches, every bite is chosen to keep your taste buds on their toes from zesty salads to sizzling stir-fries! Peep this crave-worthy eat at the Upper Ground Level, Seaview Wing.

Style Stop

  • Issy – Effortless beauty makes its first mark in Cebu at the Second Level, Seaview Wing—bringing makeup and skincare essentials that are easy to use, versatile, and endlessly chic. From everyday staples to bold statement shades, each piece is chosen to let you play, experiment, and discover your own kind of glow.

Cebu’s newest experiences are here to offer you more carefully chosen ways to spend your day, from tasty firsts to lifestyle choices. This #NewEraOfSMSupermalls has something new in store for you, whether it’s a quick excursion alone or a day out with friends.

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

 

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

Barique: A Premium Filipino Lambanog from Quezon Province Enters the Market

Before craft spirits and modern cocktails became popular on today’s bar menus, Filipinos were already enjoying a traditional drink close to home: lambanog. Distilled from coconut nectar and perfected over generations, lambanog has long been part of Filipino culture—shared during celebrations, gatherings, and late-night conversations. It represents both hospitality and the stories of our rural heritage. It is bold, familiar, and proudly Filipino.

Today, this beloved local spirit steps into a new chapter.

Introducing Barique: Traditionally Rooted, Premium by Design

Proudly crafted in Quezon Province, Barique brings a fresh take to classic lambanog for today’s Filipino celebrations. By honoring time-tested distillation practices while integrating modern quality standards, Barique transforms the well-known coconut spirit into a refined, world-class liquor.

Smooth, sweet, and boldly warm, Barique highlights what lambanog can become when craftsmanship, culture, and innovation come together.

It is available in two refined variants:

  • Barique Gold – 45% ABV, ₱3,999 (750 mL)
  • Barique Silver – 40% ABV, ₱2,599 (750 mL)

A Spirit Fit for Today’s Lifestyle

Although delightful when sipped neat, Barique was designed to shine in contemporary cocktail culture. Its clean and elegant profile works beautifully in tropical mixes, elevated island-inspired drinks, or modern twists on classics like the old-fashioned or gin fizz.

Its bold yet silky character also pairs naturally with food, making it a standout choice for Filipino dining. From grilled seafood to crispy pork dishes and rich coconut-based specialties, Barique’s warmth enhances flavors and elevates any meal.

“Barique is more than a drink—it’s a sophisticated expression of Filipino heritage. We aim to honor lambanog’s deep cultural roots while introducing a polished version that fits today’s more diverse and discerning market,” said Maura Pasciolco, General Manager of Pacificroots Coconut Products Manufacturing. ⸻

Celebrating Filipino Craftsmanship and Innovation

Barique expands the lineup of locally made products from Quezon, produced by Pacificroots Coconut Products Manufacturing, a subsidiary of Pasciolco Agri Ventures—the same company behind the well-known Quezon’s Best products.

As Quezon is the birthplace of lambanog, Barique represents local pride and creativity. It preserves the drink’s cultural identity while elevating it through world-class distillation and sanitation standards, ensuring safety, refinement, and consistent quality.

“By offering Barique at a more accessible price point, more Filipinos can now discover and appreciate the craftsmanship behind their very own lambanog,” added Lito Pasciolco, owner of Pacificroots Coconut Products Manufacturing.

A Tribute to Tradition

With each bottle, Barique encourages Filipinos to honor both their heritage and the dynamic spirit of modern Filipino living. Whether served during intimate gatherings, big celebrations, or given as a meaningful gift for life’s milestones, Barique is a proud testament that world-class spirits can be crafted in the Philippines.

Barique is now available online through quezonsbest.com and Lazada, and will soon be offered on Shopee and select retail stores nationwide, including S&R, Landers, and Marketplace.

Further details about Barique can be found at barique-lambanog.shop.

Fashion, Food, Lifestyle

Davao’s Top New Firsts: Places You’ll Want to Guard

As more businesses open at SM Lanang, the city is bustling with a fresh, lively energy that makes Davao even more truly madayaw. Every new discovery is created for you here, from fashion and entertainment activities worth exhibiting on your grid to fashionable, mouthwatering cuisine. Exciting discoveries await in this new era of SM Supermalls, each of which reflects how we continue to develop and change alongside you.

Every visit is guaranteed to become a tale worth telling thanks to carefully selected flavors and styles that may satisfy any picky Davaoeño’s palate.

All the Cuisines You’ll Love

Craving hand-pulled udon noodles? Or perhaps an entire feast of international cuisines? Whether it’s your favorite bowl of Japanese favorites or an elevated spread that calls for a few more plates, enjoy carefully selected dining experiences to satisfy every appetite.

  • Hakura Udon– Opening its first Mindanao branch at the 2nd Level, North Wing, inviting Davaoeños to savor authentic Oriental flavors. Here, you can enjoy a unique selection of umami-rich delicacies, ranging from its signature, traditionally made udon noodles to staple Japanese classics, all cooked to perfection.
  • Buffet 101– Craving a wider array of food selections? Then head over to Buffet 101 at the 3rd Level. A first in Mindanao, this all-you-can-eat restaurant features cuisines from all over the world. With mouthwatering Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and American offerings right at your fingertips, Buffet 101 is sure to satisfy every dining desire.

What Your Dream Lifestyle Needs

Your lifestyle choices shape how you enjoy every day–that’s why we make sure every visit brings something new to discover. From fashion that inspires confidence to gadgets and accessories that blend comfort with style, these new spots are here to add more ease, excitement, and inspiration to your life.

  • Nike Rise– Unleash your inner athlete—or at least look the part—with the latest in sportswear at the Upper Ground Level. Combining the classic Nike store experience with an immersive digital environment, you’ll walk out wearing a great-looking pair of sneakers and a new sporty look.
  • Digital Walker– If you’re looking to upgrade to the latest handheld tech, Digital Walker located at the 3rd Level has you covered. From laptops and smartphones to Bluetooth speakers and smartwatches, Digital Walker’s gadgets and wearables will level up your tech game while keeping you effortlessly chic.
  • The Watch Store– Thinking of upgrading your wrist game? Step into the newest branch of The Watch Store at the 2nd Level and explore timepieces that blend craftsmanship with style. From the timeless elegance of Tissot, Frederique Constant, and Alpina to fashion-forward picks from Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, and Coach—there’s something to match every look and occasion. Whether you’re after precision, personality, or both, your next favorite watch is waiting.

Davao’s newest firsts are here to give your days more flair and taste, from delectable feasts to lifestyle needs made particularly for you. It’s guaranteed to be full with moments you’ll want to share on your feed, whether you’re taking a short vacation or spending the entire day exploring. Only in the #NewEraOfSMSupermalls is all of this coming together.

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

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

METRO MANILA’S BEST NEW FIRSTS: Tastes You’ll Return for

Not only do delicious meals satisfy you, but they also entice you to return for more.

This season, SM Supermalls welcomes you to explore a daring new era full of changing discoveries with a mouthwatering selection of culinary locations designed to pique desires and establish enduring favorites. Every first is carefully crafted to elevate the bar for flavor and deliver new eating experiences to every table, from Japan’s rich culinary traditions to the craftsmanship of coffee and chocolate.

One thing never changes while we continue to serve these meals hot: at SM Supermalls, we’re constantly developing and changing alongside you to genuinely demonstrate that we have everything you need.

A Journey Through Japan

Nothing compares to the depth and comfort of authentic Japanese flavors. These handpicked spots serve everything from rich, hearty ramen to delicate, traditional sweets—each one made to bring a true taste of Japan to the Metro.

  • Ramen Nagi– Craving comfort in a bowl? Ramen Nagi at the Ground Level, South Wing of SM Mall of Asia serves up rich, soul-warming ramen that’s as bold as it is satisfying. From creamy tonkotsu broth to perfectly chewy noodles and your choice of toppings, every bowl is made to hit just the right spot. Whether you’re a spice chaser or a flavor purist, this is your go-to for ramen that delivers on every slurp.
  • Warabimochi – Soft, silky, and oh-so-satisfying—Warabimochi is now here at the Lower Ground Level of SM Aura to give dessert a whole new texture. This Japanese favorite melts in your mouth with every bite, whether dusted in nutty kinako or topped with a luscious syrup. Light enough for an afternoon treat yet special enough to end a meal, it’s the kind of sweetness you’ll want to linger over.

Poured to Perfection

From the roast to the steep, every step is done with care. These coffee and tea destinations serve up expertly crafted cups that balance flavor, aroma, and artistry—perfect for slow mornings, midday pick-me-ups, and everything in between.

  • CHAGEE – Cool, creamy, and brewed just right—CHAGEE makes its Philippine debut by bringing a new kind of tea experience to SM City North EDSA at the 2nd Level, City Center. Every cup is steeped to perfection for flavor that hits just right. Whether you’re in need for a little escape or chilling with friends, it’s tea time with a little extra kick of fun.
  • Kenangan Coffee– Bold flavors, smooth pours, and the best Indonesian vibe—Kenangan Coffee is now brewing at SM Megamall. Known for its signature lattes and creative blends, every cup is made to keep your coffee moments anything but ordinary. Whether you’re grabbing a quick pick-me-up or savoring it slowly, this is coffee that will stay with you long after the last drop.
  • H Proper Coffee Roasters– Turn your coffee runs into something worth looking forward to at SM Podium. H Proper Coffee Roasters is here to brew up rich aromas with just-right caffeine kick that can turn your ordinary day into a great one.

The Art of Indulgence

Some chocolates are so good they become an experience all on their own—and that’s exactly what you get with Läderach. Switzerland’s world-famous chocolatier has finally arrived at SM Mall of Asia, marking its first store in the Philippines. Known for its silky pralines, crisp nut-studded slabs, and decadent truffles, each bite strikes the perfect balance of rich and refined. Whether you’re into bold, dark notes or creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness, this is Swiss chocolate done right. One visit and you’ll know—this is the gold standard of indulgence.

Brunch O’Clock

Who says brunch is only for weekends? With the first Brunch Bureau in SM now open at the 2nd Level of S Maison, we’ve made it easier to turn any time of day into an excuse for pancakes at 3 PM. From perfectly brewed coffee to savory plates that hit just the right spot, it’s your moment to slow down and enjoy a little extra me-time. No rush, no rules—just brunch done your way.

To what extent would your cravings lead you? Metro Manila’s newest restaurants offer everything from sophisticated desserts to deep, savory classics that will entice, surprise, and satisfy. These are flavorful experiences you’ll want to revisit, not simply meals. In this #NewEraOfSMSupermalls, everything has been carefully chosen to transform your ordinary cravings into something worth obsessing over.

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

#NewEraOfSMSupermalls All For You
At SM Supermalls, a bold New Era unfolds with Evolving Finds— bringing together the best in brands, dining, and experiences, all for you. From world-class cuisine and exclusive retail treasures to inspiring spaces that connect communities, SM continues to evolve to give you the very best of everything in one place.

As we grow, our commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments remains at the heart of everything we do. Because at SM, we’ve got it all for you.

 

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

Pinoy invention, The Better Vessel, sets new high standard for quality espresso at the World Barista Championship (WBC)

Photo credit Jowell Juanillo

Following an inspiring performance at the 2025 World Barista Championship (WBC) in Milan, twotime Philippine National Barista champion, Michael Harris Conlin shares his vision for the future of Filipino coffee. Conlin, who secured a remarkable 13th place overall and took home the distinction of Best Espresso in Round One of the global competition, unveils his groundbreaking invention, The Better Vessel.

Conlin’s performance at the WBC was a testament to collaboration and purpose. His signature espresso—a complex, harmonious blend of Philippine Liberica and Colombian Eugenioides, cocreated with producer Wilton Benitez— immediately captured the judges’ attention. This blend was lauded not just for its complexity, but for showcasing the untapped potential of Philippine Liberica on the world stage.

“For a fleeting instant, the world understood what my heart has been trying to say,” Conlin shared regarding his Round One success. “That cup represented people, passion, and the power of working together. It was a clear win for every dreamer who has ever believed that coffee could build bridges instead of walls.”

The core of Conlin’s vision is not a trophy, but transformation, which is embodied by his latest innovation, The Better Vessel. This revolutionary tool is designed to make high-quality espresso more approachable and consistent for both seasoned baristas and everyday consumers.

The Better Vessel achieves this by gently and selectively removing the bitterness and harshness of crema, allowing for a longer, cleaner, and sweeter shot extraction.

“The discoveries we made were never meant to stay on a stage; they were meant to ripple outward,” Conlin states. “The Better Vessel is a small step forward with a big purpose: to ring more people into the world of espresso by making it less intimidating and more inclusive.”

For the professional coffee industry, the tool promises to simplify the dialing-in process, drastically reducing waste and improving consistency. More importantly, this innovation is positioned to propel Philippine coffee culture globally by setting a new, high standard for quality espresso that is both technically flawless and universally appealing.

Conlin believes that by simplifying the science and sharing the techniques, he can lift the entire local value chain, inspiring Filipino farmers and producers to further explore and experiment without fear.

For more details about Michael Harris Conlin and The Better Vessel, please visit thevault.ph.

 

Food, Lifestyle

Ersao, gimme five! FuBear of Taiwan Excellence Shares Ersao Taiwanese Restaurant’s Favorite Real Taiwan Treats!

FuBear with Ersao in front of Ersao Taiwanese Restaurant

The popular Taiwan-cuisine restaurant gets a cheerful paw of approval from the Taiwan Excellence mascot. Together, FuBear and Ersao recommend their must-try orders from the nationwide Taiwan food franchise.

Who is FuBear?

FuBear is a character resembling Taiwan’s national animal, the Formosan black bear. Representing the values of Taiwan Excellence, FuBear is on a “Gimme Five” mission to motivate the spirit of excellence by giving high fives to everyone who performs simple and grand efforts that contributes to their communities.

 

FuBear’s favourite food items at Ersao Taiwanese Restaurant.

Soy Bathe Dumplings

FuBear’s High-Five Favourites at Ersao Taiwanese Restaurant!

Soy Bathe Dumplings – An iconic Eastern dish made of cooked dough and hearty meat or vegetable fillings, usually enjoyed with soy sauce. Soy Bathe Dumplings from Ersao are one of FuBear’s favourite treats for its mix of savory fillings and tasty sauce!

Spicy Chicken Taiwan Snack – Authentic Taiwan-style popcorn fried chicken. FuBear loves to share these crispy bites with friends!

Signature Beef Noodles

Signature Beef Noodles – FuBear’s go-to comfort food for its perfectly cooked noodles, flavorful beef, and variety of vegetables!

Pearl Milk Tea – With just one sip of the sweet milk tea and one bite of the chewy tapioca pearls, FuBear is instantly reminded of home! Don’t miss out on the popular pearl milk tea that originated from Taiwan!

FuBear and Ersao doing high five inside Ersao Taiwanese Restaurant

Where Can We See FuBear Next?

FuBear is set to explore more of the Philippines soon. For updates on FuBear’s journey, follow Taiwan Excellence PH on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanExcellence.ph.

For more information, please visit https://www.taiwanexcellence.org/en

 

Food, Lifestyle, Travel

As LIFT intensifies its first MassKara experience, festival attendees dared to switch

Festival-goers joined the fun as LIFT brought its bold spirit to MassKara for the first time.

With its debut at the MassKara Festival, Coca-Cola Philippines’ newest beverage, LIFT, gave the streets of Bacolod a thrilling lift. As thousands of festival attendees took on the “Dare to Switch” challenge, the three-day activity along Lacson Street became one of the most talked-about locations.

Exciting activities that embodied LIFT’s daring challenger attitude were at the center of the activation. Participants showed their strength at the LIFT UpBar, struck imaginative postures at the LIFT Art Photo Wall, and demonstrated their steadfast attention and coordination at the LIFT Bottle Up challenge. They also raced against the clock to solve the LIFT Maze. Every game pushed players’ boundaries, gave them more self-assurance, and inspired them to keep going.

Attendees eagerly joined the activities at the grand LIFT booth, won exclusive prizes, and captured their unforgettable MassKara moments.

The LIFT booth buzzed with excitement as festival-goers lined up to take their shot at beating the timer and outscoring others. Many also stopped to capture their share-worthy moments at the booth and turned the experience into an online celebration of the challenger mindset. Across every challenge, the LIFT booth became a space where high spirits met determination, proving that anyone can dare to switch.

“LIFT’s first-ever MassKara activation was a celebration of the bold spirit that defines both the brand and the festival,” said Frenissa Mae Lagman, Frontline Marketing Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines. “MassKara is all about uplifting the Filipino spirit, and LIFT embodies that same drive — to face every challenge with confidence and dare to switch when it’s time to level up.”

After electrifying thousands of attendees and introducing more Filipinos to the brand’s spirit of challenge, LIFT left its imprint as the festival came to a conclusion. Are you prepared to change? LIFT is currently offered in sari-sari stores in Western Visayas, and there will be more activities and events around the country.

To find out where the Dare to Switch experience is going next, follow LIFT Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.

 

 

 

 

Food

On this World Bread Day, Dimples Romana declares Marby Superloaf to be her family’s new staple food

On October 16, Marby Food Ventures held a celebration of World Bread Day at the Mall of Asia Music Hall. Dimples Romana, a beloved actress and active mother, joined Filipino families and left the event with a clear message: Switch to Marby! The resounding success shown that Marby’s recently improved Superloaf has persuaded customers that it’s time to make it a necessary home staple.

The fact that bread is more than simply food and is a staple of daily family life was brought to light on World Bread Day, as mothers shared snack tips and children playedfully nibbled on their favorite sandwiches. Marby Superloaf, who is now mas pina-siksik, mas pina-pino, mas pina-lambot, and mas pinasarap, was the center of attention.

With Ms Dimples Romana

Marby Food Ventures’ World Bread Day celebration showed how something as simple as bread can bring families together. Seeing Dimples Romana share this moment with fellow moms made the event feel warm and relatable. It reminded me that bread isn’t just a meal—it’s part of our daily family moments, from breakfast to merienda. Marby’s upgraded Superloaf truly represents comfort, quality, and the simple joys that connect us at the table.

The celebration brought together families to honor the role Marby bread plays in daily Filipino life.

Guests shared how every slice felt soft and satisfying, making it a versatile choice for both sweet and savory meals, noting that the Superloaf easily fits into their routines, from school snacks in the morning to family merienda in the afternoon. Attendees experienced the upgraded Marby Superloaf, na mas pina-siksik, mas pina-pino, mas pina-malambot, at mas pinasarap, securing  its place as a new household staple.

The day featured activities that brought families closer together. Chef Marky, known for his creative food content, conducted a live demo showcasing quick and exciting snack ideas with Marby Superloaf, reminding parents that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Kids enjoyed neighborhood-inspired games while parents participated in stage games and savored special treats.

Families also took advantage of  an exclusive Buy 1 Take 1 Marby Loaf promo, allowing them to bring the experience home. Many remarked that Marby Superloaf felt like a new household staple.

Celebrating Everyday Bread Moments

The celebration extended beyond the venue, as photos and stories filled social media, with moms, kids, and influencers sharing their favorite Marby Superloaf moments. The excitement reflected not only the success of the event but also the bread’s growing place in real family occasions.

Marby strengthened its standing as a reliable bread brand for Filipino homes by spearheading this year’s World Bread Day celebration. Marby Superloaf, whether it is served at the merienda table or packed in a lunchbox, is quickly becoming the new bread of choice for Filipino families and is ingrained in the little but significant moments of daily life.

The bread that is rapidly becoming a daily favorite in Filipino homes, Marby Superloaf, is the perfect moment to make room on your table! The updated Marby Superloaf is readily available in the grocery shop closest to you for those who wish to try it. It is also available for convenient online buying through Lazada, Shopee and TikTok Shop, making it simple to check out a loaf and enjoy it at home.

 

 

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

PASKO NA, But still want to keep it sulit? Don’t worry, we’ve gotchu covered!

Make the most of your Christmas with good deals and convenience at your fingertips

For us Filipinos, a switch turns the moment the ber-months arrive. Christmas is a four-month (or possibly five-month) festival that marks the end of the year, not just one day.

Following Simbang Gabi, the air is warmed by the delightful aroma of puto bumbong and bibingka. Homes are brimming with Christmas enthusiasm, the streets are aglow with colorful lights, and food is quickly becoming the unavoidable, endearing focal point of every festivity. When our loved ones return home—OFWs, students, and employees—every meal together becomes a treasured, life-long family memory.

With the long list of expenses for gifts, gatherings, and decorations, Filipinos have mastered the art of the sulit celebration: maximum joy, minimum gastos. The Filipino Christmas has always been defined by diskarte (resourcefulness) and creativity: planning early, perfecting potlucks, and finding smart ways to make the season lighter on the wallet but just as full of joy. Because for us, the magic isn’t in how grand the feast is, but in how full the table feels—with laughter, love, and the people who matter most.

This Christmas, foodpanda helps Filipinos celebrate more while spending less through the PASKONA voucher, which gives up to ₱100 off on favorite dishes and essentials from beloved food spots such as KFC, Mang Inasal, Shakey’s, Pizza Hut, Popeyes, Angel’s Pizza, Kenny Rogers, Goldilocks, Pickup Coffee, and grocery partners on the app.

Beyond savings, foodpanda also brings ease and reliability to the busy holiday season—making food, gifts, and essentials just a few taps away. Whether it’s a last-minute handa, a potluck with friends, or a quick grocery run, foodpanda’s got every Filipino covered, so they can focus on what truly matters: celebrating the joy of Christmas.

Patricia Jacinto, Marketing Director of foodpanda Philippines shared that the campaign is about helping Filipinos find new ways to make the busy holiday season simpler, more affordable, and more enjoyable. “The holidays are a time for connection and celebration, but they can also be overwhelming. With foodpanda, we want to make it easier and more sulit for everyone to celebrate by bringing convenience, savings, and joy straight to their homes. We want everyone to be able to celebrate the holidays without stress,” she reflected.

It’s a straightforward dessert that serves as a reminder to everyone that Christmas magic need not equate to luxury. Good company, delicious food, and the small things that brighten life are important at times. Because it’s comforting to know that someone is there for you when you need them most, especially during the Christmas rush. “PASKONA, WE GOTCHU!” is what foodpanda is saying this time.”

Both new and returning customers can use the PASKONA coupon until December 31, 2025. This Christmas, make every event sarap-sulit by checking the Foodpanda app for updates.

 

 

 

Food

Ian Veneracion, Crispy Fry®’s new campaign and brand ambassador, solidifies the company’s position in Filipino kitchens

 #BastaFriedICrispyFry® campaign expands with new dishes, deeper connections, and a trusted new face

The nation’s top breading mix brand, Crispy Fry®, has launched its “Eat Campaign,” a novel twist on home-cooked meals that extends beyond fried chicken, further igniting Filipinos’ passion for fried cuisine. With innovative dish ideas like the Fry Feast Platter, which includes Fried Tofu, Mojos, and Potato Wedges, Crispy Fry® demonstrates that it is still a versatile kitchen staple for a variety of palates and events.

This year, the company introduces Ian Veneracion, a timeless and well regarded figure in Philippine entertainment, as its newest endorser, bringing an exciting new energy to Filipino homes.

Best known for his versatile roles and family-oriented image, Ian Veneracion now serves as the official face of Crispy Fry®’s 2025 campaign. With a showbiz career that spans over four decades, Ian has earned the trust and admiration of generations—especially mothers and homemakers who resonate with his dependable, warm, and relatable persona.

“Crispy Fry® is a staple in countless Filipino homes, and we are excited to welcome Mr. Ian Veneracion as our brand ambassador,” said Daye Magno, Department Head of Marketing at Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation. “His credibility and enduring connection with Filipino families make him the perfect partner to represent our message: that Crispy Fry® brings ease, flavor, and joy to everyday meals.”

More Than Just Fried Chicken

Crispy Fry® has long been known for turning everyday fried chicken into a crispysarap experience. With variants like Original, Garlic, Spicy, and BatterMix, Crispy Fry® gives homemakers the freedom to serve crispy and delicious meals — every single time.

For 2025, the campaign broadens this appeal, inviting families to try more creative dishes through the Fry Feast Platter and explore how Crispy Fry® can bring life to more than just chicken. Whether it’s golden-crisp tofu or perfectly seasoned mojos, Crispy Fry® is a must-have pantry staple for effortless yet flavorful cooking.

“As someone who enjoys preparing meals for my family, I appreciate how Crispy Fry® makes cooking not only easier but more exciting,” shared Ian Veneracion. “It’s reliable, delicious, and versatile — just like how I approach the roles I take on.”

“Basta Fried, i-Crispy Fry®”

The brand’s dedication to making every fried dish a guaranteed success is encapsulated in the campaign’s revised call to action, “Basta Fried, i-Crispy Fry®.” It also invites more intimate, emotional ties with Filipino families and homemakers.

In an effort to encourage more Filipinos to love cooking at home, Ian Veneracion is spearheading a campaign that is spreading across several platforms through a series of TV ads and digital content.

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions, and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.