Friday, September 12, 2025

CDO's Bold New Firsts Begin at SM Supermalls Discover new ways to dine – only at SM



Craving for some mouthwatering seafood? How about freshly brewed coffee, ready to go? This month, it’s all about what you want—check out these newly opened food and beverage spots heading your way.

You have all the reasons to make life more rewarding with these new firsts. From indulgent  dining to quick coffee breaks, you deserve nothing but the best to satisfy your cravings. 

Have a truly fulfilling day and give yourself limitless possibilities to live the good life with SM Supermalls—right here in Cagayan de Oro City.




Fresh Eats Straight from the Sea at Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant

Experience a unique dining experience with Zubaibai Seafood Restaurant—a bold new take on Filipino culinary traditions perfect for every seafood lover.

This pork-free restaurant offers flavorful dishes with a modern twist, including their signature Balangay Seafood Boil: a hearty platter of fresh seafood served in a custom-built Balangay-style boat—honoring Filipino heritage in a festive spread. Each dish is carefully plated with built-in burners, keeping the food deliciously hot and freshly cooked right at your table.

Indulge in the sea’s bounty, and experience a burst of flavor with this beachside-inspired dining escape at Level 5, SM CDO Downtown.




Coffee On-the-Go with Starbucks Drive-thru

Starbucks, one of the country’s most popular cafés, has opened its first-ever drive-thru store here in Northern Mindanao—giving our busy coffee lovers the convenience of enjoying their favorite blends and brews while on the road.




Kickstart your day with your go-to Iced Latte. Feel adventurous and try one of their seasonal signature brews. Pair your handcrafted coffee or non-coffee drink with a delicious Doughssant. 

Whatever your mood or wherever you go, you can now take Starbucks with you. Whether you’re headed to work, running errands, or just exploring the city, your caffeine fix is always just a quick stop at the North Wing of SM City CDO Uptown.   

Discover new ways to dine—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!















SM Supermalls #NewEraOfFirsts
At SM Supermalls, we’re proud to lead a New Era of Firsts—bringing you first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that connect and inspire communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and exciting waiting for you at SM.

Best New Firsts in Cebu: Must-Try Eats You’ll Want to Line Up For



This month, treat yourself to feel-good flavors and cozy new spots. Whether you're in the mood for a quick heartwarming bite or a slow, satisfying break, these newly opened stores have the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence waiting for you. Relax, recharge, and savor the moment—only at SM City Cebu.




Mo’ Cookies - Want a sweet snack to brighten your day? Indulge your cookie cravings at SM City Cebu with the latest sweet treats from The Moment Group.

This newest go-to spot serves up ooey-gooey, palm-sized favorites in all the flavors you love—from the classic Chocolate Chip to delightful surprises like the South Cotabato Fudge and Nutella Crinkle.

With cookies this good, Mo’ Cookies will definitely have you asking for Mo’!




8Cuts Burgers - What makes the perfect beef patty? Chuck, rib eye, short rib, sirloin, brisket, hanger, flank—perhaps even oxtail. For your discerning palate, 8Cuts Burgers has got you covered!

Known for serving up flavors worth remembering, this latest opening from The Moment Group knows exactly what you deserve. With custom-blended patties, satisfy your burger cravings with the juiciest, most flavorful bite made just for you.

And don’t forget 8Cuts’ all-star sides—especially the crowd-favorite Onion Rings, because no burger experience is complete without them.

From sweet snacks and savory fixes, get to enjoy the best of life here in Cebu—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!
















SM Supermalls #NewEraOfFirsts
At SM Supermalls, we’re proud to lead a New Era of Firsts—bringing you first-to-market brands, groundbreaking experiences, and culinary destinations you won’t find anywhere else. From world-class dining and retail exclusives to innovative spaces that connect and inspire communities, we’re redefining what it means to have it all.

As we continue to grow, we remain committed to sustainability, community empowerment, and creating memorable moments that make every visit more meaningful. There’s always something new and exciting waiting for you at SM.

BEST & NEW FIRSTS IN METRO MANILA: Dining destinations you wouldn’t want to miss



What’s better than a full stomach? A heart made even more fulfilled—thanks to all these new and absolute must-try restaurants headlining in the Metro.

This month of July, the cravings never stop as SM continues to welcome new firsts and flagship stores, with restaurants ready to serve you only the best of dining experiences. From the freshest concepts to the most crafty dishes, each restaurant offers a unique culinary journey you won't want to miss. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply in search of something new, SM has everything to satisfy your cravings.




From Artisan Hands To Your Everyday Moments 

There’s a certain magic in food made with heart—from the slow preparation to the flavors that linger. Whether you're craving comfort food or something new, SM Supermalls brings together a mix of dining spots where care and craftsmanship are always on the menu.



  • % Arabica at SM Podium - Expand your caffeine horizons with % Arabica. Featuring the finest Arabica coffee beans and a calm, minimalist decor. It's the perfect spot to grab your drink to-go and snap a cute Instagram-worthy photo.


  • The Matcha Tokyo at SM Mall of Asia - Starting off fresh with its first flagship store, The Matcha Tokyo expands its presence here in Manila as it continues to deliver its proud selections of purely organic matcha, complete from beverages to desserts. 


  • Hoshino Coffee at SM Mall of Asia - For our coffee lovers, inspire your everyday with some rich and aromatic tasting notes from Hoshino Coffee—featuring its signature hand-dripped blends and souffle pancakes. Enjoy your caffeine fix paired with desserts and dishes you’ll love.



Your Next Asian Craving Starts Here

Craving for some flavorful soup? How about some katsudon? Enjoy a month of tasteful feasts with these new Asian restaurants set to make the dining scene in SM City North EDSA and SM Mall of Asia more vibrant than ever. 



  • Shaburo 21 at SM Mall of Asia - Delight in a solo hot pot experience with Shaburo 21—a stylish, single-serve shabu-shabu restaurant which opened their first-in-PH store. Originating from Korea, they offer a range of quality meat and fresh vegetables paired with their house-special sauces.


  • Katsudonya Saiko at SM City North Edsa - Experience the best katsudon in town at Katsudonya Saiko. With its upscale interiors and authentic Japanese flavors, you’ll feel transported to the Land of the Rising Sun with every lip-smacking bite. Oishii!



Your Food Favorites, Made Extra Special 

We understand that you deserve the best—and that’s exactly what we’re serving: indulgent food in a great ambiance. Check out these newly opened and freshly upgraded restaurants at SM Aura and SM Mall of Asia.



  • Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens at SM Mall of Asia - Speaking of the best, the ultimate dining destination for everything Japanese cuisine just recently opened their biggest space yet, here at the SM Mall of Asia. Kiwami: Japanese Master Kitchens offer a variety of food options through their lineup of famous dining spots from across Japan. Featuring restaurants like Koyo, Yabu, Ippudo, Hannosuke, Hachibei, fully satisfy your cravings for Japanese food to your heart’s content.


  • Niku Niku Oh!! Kome at SM Mall of Asia - This new restaurant is a must-visit omakase-style hamburger steak chain centered on serving quality beef cuts directly imported from Japan—ground daily and prepared live!


  • Burger & Lobster’s Terrace at SM Aura - Just a few months after launching their first home here in the Philippines, Burger & Lobster is here yet again with a new, soon to open addition to their restaurant—featuring its freshly opened, totally must-visit terrace area to enjoy your surf and turf combo at. Feel the obsessive vibe. Have your well-deserved dining moment, and dig into this fan favorite from London in the luxury of taking in an equally delicious view.

Hot pot? Japanese favorites? Or perhaps a delightful serving of lobster with a great view? From casual treats to high-end pleasures, we’ve got you covered—only at SM Supermalls, bringing you a #NewEraOfFirsts.

Don’t forget to like and follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates and events!

Top 3 Things You Can’t Miss at HIMBON: The 39th Negros Trade Fair



Rising Negrense Chefs' Culinary Creations: On August 26, 2025, during the media launch of Himbon: The 39th Negros Trade Fair, two Negrense talents stole the show and left the audience speechless. Their names are worth noting.  A taste of what is possible—innovative, world-class, and proudly Negrense—was provided by their culinary menu!




This year, the Negros Trade Fair makes its historic debut at SM Aura—and it’s bringing with it  the flavors, fashion, and flair of Negrense heritage. Here are the main reasons of must experiences for foodies, fashionistas, and lifestyle lovers you don’t want to miss: 

#1 Heritage Weaves, Modern Fashion & Accessories 


Handwoven Hablon, hand-smocked dresses, and chic tropical fibers reimagined for today’s wardrobe. Paired with striking local jewelry and artisanal accessories, these pieces prove heritage and modernity can walk the runway together.


#2 Handcrafted Home Finds 


From pandan to bamboo to buri—Negrense artisans transform natural fibers into elegant accents for your home. Discover design-forward décor and furnishings that bring timeless Negros craftsmanship into modern living.


#3 Artisan Sweet & Savory & Pasalubong 



Stock up on flavors that define Negros: – From Mumshies’ delicacies to Virgie’s home-made mango tarts and pastries, plus savory favorites like the Ereneta-Manaloto’s bottled Chorizo de Bacolod and a lot more— Sweet or savory, these iconic bites are made for gifting—or for keeping all to yourself. 


Experience More at HIMBON

Beyond just shopping, HIMBON is a celebration of Negrense culture.   Savor regionally made wines and Don Papa rum as live acoustic music permeates the atmosphere, bringing Negros' warmth to the city.   Let the expo inspire your next trip with its exhibits of pristine beaches, historic haciendas, and gastronomic adventures—all of which invite you to experience Negros firsthand.    Every artisan booth and exquisitely furnished space has a narrative waiting for your feed, so don't forget to snap photos of your #HimbonMoments as you go.

At its core, HIMBON means “to gather.” And this fair is exactly that—a gathering of food, fashion, and heritage that  celebrates both tradition and modern creativity. 
  • Save the Date: Sept 23–28 | SMX Convention Center, SM Aura 
  • Taste. Shop. Celebrate. Experience Negros like never before. 















About SM Supermalls MSMEs 
Celebrating 40 Super Years of Evolving With You, SM Supermalls—one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and  operators with 88 malls nationwide—marks a new era of connecting communities and redefining the malling experience  through sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. SM also champions Filipino entrepreneurship, empowering MSMEs— driving local growth, showcasing homegrown talent, and fueling the Filipino spirit of enterprise. 

Food, Art, and Play Come Together in One Place at This New Eastern Hangout



From cosmopolitan snacks and sizzling hot pot to vivid mural backdrops and barkada game evenings, this East-side center caters to all types of hangouts.

Foodies, art enthusiasts, and gamers—this new hangout space in the EAST has something for everyone.

From Neapolitan pizza and Okinawan steak to billiards tournaments and art-filled corners, the new East Wing at SM City East Ortigas is more than just a gourmet playground; it's also a lively social location.  Whether you're a foodie looking for world flavors, an artist looking for Instagram-worthy backdrops, or a gamer looking for friendly matches at the Game Park, this East-side hotspot combines your interests together in one elegant venue.


For the Art Squads: The Glow-Up by Kiefsix

Increasing the element of coolness?  Kiefsix (Kiefer Indiongco), an illustrator and creative director based in Manila, created enormous, vibrant murals on bare walls.  His daring, basketball-inspired designs transform the East Wing into an open gallery that doubles as a hangout and an art crawl.  Additionally, guests are given a playful tour of the area by EYO, a colorful, sun-inspired figure created by Kiefsix that is constantly Instagram-friendly and ready for selfies.




or the Foodies: A Passport of Flavors

The East Wing lineup reads like a culinary world tour:
  • Paris Baguette – Bakery brand from South Korea serving pastries and cakes.
  • Hoshino Coffee – Signature hand-dripped coffee and soufflé pancakes from Japan.
  • Du Hsiao Yueh – Taiwan’s iconic Dan Zai noodles.
  • Jiangnan Hot Pot and Grill – Authentic Chinese broths, meats, and sauces made for sharing.
  • Rossopomodoro – Neapolitan pizza and pasta straight from Italy.
  • Yappari Steak – Black Angus beef grilled on lava stones from Mount Fuji in Okinawa, Japan.
  • Nanyang – Singaporean staples like laksa and kaya toast.
  • Eat Pizza – Giant K-style pizza slices made for photos.
  • Kenangan Coffee & Zus Coffee – Bold brews from Indonesia and Malaysia.
  • BEBANG’s Halo-Halo – Fifteen playful takes on the Filipino classic.
  • And that’s not the full spread—you’ll also find crowd-pleasers like Sumo Niku, Pancake House, Mesa, French
  • Baker, Super Bowl of China, Yummy Mala Pot, Yococo, Coco Fresh, Smashing Lemon, NYFD Fries, Gang Gang
  • Chicken, and more. Basically, it’s your foodie passport without ever leaving Pasig City.



For the Gamers: Chill + Play at the Game Park

If gamers and foodies make up an equal portion of your group, the East Wing Foodcourt + Game Park is the perfect venue.   Enjoy ramen bowls from Buchiton, fiery Thai cuisine from Thaiwadee, or K-cravings from Seoul Yummy, and then unwind at the Game Park with pool, darts, or karaoke.   It's the ideal fusion of eating and playing, a time-tested strategy for fostering closer ties between barkadas.

Food court staples like Dingers, TEXMEX, Hey Fried Rice, Lechon Belly Kitchen, Potato Corner, Kohi Manju, Barcada, and Sizzling Plate do participate in the festivities.





Why It’s the Spot for Every Squad

Here’s the thing: the East Wing isn’t just about food—it’s about making memories across passions. Coffee runs, mural selfies, barkada hotpot nights, or game-time showdowns—it’s the kind of place that adapts to your vibe. And with EYO around to brighten every visit, the East Wing becomes the go-to hub for every squad in the East.

Ready to Hangout Here? Snap your mural selfies, discover your next foodie obsession, hit your game streak, and let EYO show you the brighter side of the East.

SM City East Ortigas – East WingFollow along: #HangoutHereAtSMEast | #HangoutWithEYO

Monday, September 8, 2025

Hotel Sogo Launches ₱100K Dance Showdown for Filipino Crews

“We want to highlight the real dance talent of the Filipino people—those who bring energy, rhythm, and positive spirit wherever they go. This contest allows groups to bond, express themselves, and possibly win big while doing something they love. We’ve always believed in creating opportunities that are fun, meaningful, and community-driven. SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION embodies our commitment to give ordinary Filipinos extraordinary moments.” ~Ms. Sue Geminiano, Hotel Sogo Marketing Manager


“SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION” spotlights talent, unity, and energy through a nationwide group competition


Hotel Sogo has formally launched the SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION, a countrywide dance competition open to groups of four to eight people, aged 18 and up, with ₱100,000 in cash prizes and staycation benefits, in an effort to combine entertainment, inclusion, and brand enthusiasm.

The SOGO dancing REVOLUTION, the hotel's largest campaign for 2025, is a national celebration of dancing, collaboration, and Filipino ingenuity rather than merely a competition.


A Digital-First Dance Challenge

To join, dance crews must produce a 30–60 second video featuring original, creative, and family-friendly choreography. Entries should be posted on TikTok, Facebook, or Instagram, with the caption:
“We’re joining the SOGO DANCE REVOLUTION! Support our entry by liking and sharing! #SogoDanceRevolution #HotelSogo #SogoDanceShowdown”




The video must tag @hotelsogo and be set to public. All members must follow Hotel Sogo’s official social media pages, and the group must register via an online form or QR code available at any Hotel Sogo branch nationwide.

The deadline for submission is September 5, 2025.


Judging and the Grand Finals
  • From all valid entries, top-performing groups will be selected based on the following criteria:
  • Dance Skills & Choreography – 40%
  • Social Media Engagement – 30%
  • Creativity & Overall Look – 20%
  • Confidence & Energy – 10%




Interested participants may register through this 


These finalists will advance to a Grand Finals Showdown, where they will perform live before a panel of celebrity judges and a cheering crowd.

Prizes include a grand champion title, a possible official ambassadorship, and a share of the ₱100,000 prize pool. One group will also receive a Special Award for Most Engaged Group, based on social media virality and shares.


A Movement of Dance, Community, and Filipino Pride

Hotel Sogo, widely recognized for its “So Clean, So Good” brand promise, continues to expand its footprint beyond hospitality. This latest campaign reflects the brand’s commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment through digital platforms.

Finalists will be announced on Hotel Sogo’s social media pages, and the Grand Finals will be held at a to-be-announced venue later this year.

For full mechanics and contest updates, visit www.hotelsogo.com or follow Hotel Sogo on social media: Facebook: Instagram: TikTok.


Friday, August 8, 2025

McDonald’s Brings Back McCafé Cereal Milk to Match Your Main Character Energy

“Gen Z wants products that reflect their energy, lifestyle, and even their emotional rhythm. While hot coffee will always have its place, younger drinkers are leading a shift towards different kinds of drinks, especially iced coffee, as their anytime treat -- something that satisfies both taste and personality. The return of the McCafé Cereal Milk along  with our existing McCafé coffee flavors let them sip according to their mood and fully embrace their main character energy.” ~Ada Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer, McDonald’s Philippines


McDonald's has returned the popular Cereal Milk Coffee, which now joins McCafé's wide range of tasty coffee alternatives available nationally, providing Gen Zers exactly what they need to fuel their constantly shifting attitudes and main character moments.

A new era of coffee consumption has been brought about by the generation that boldly bears the labels of tech-savvy, socially concerned, and effortlessly unique.  Coffee has evolved from a morning habit to a lifestyle item, emotional support system, and distinguishing characteristic of Gen Z's personal identity.  Because the drinking habits of this age also reflect their emotional states.  At one point, they are flourishing with the vitality of the main character.  They're in the thick of their "leave me on read" mood the next second.

McDonald's is aware that for Gen Z today, coffee is about more than simply getting through the day; it's about elevating the mood with better and tastier options. For this reason, the McCafé Cereal Milk lineup is returning for a brief period of time in all locations nationwide.  McCafé Cereal Milk Iced, a McDonald's classic, combines the strong taste of freshly brewed coffee with the nostalgic comfort of creamy, sweet cereal milk. The McCafé Cereal Milk Iced Latte, which is offered at select McDonald's, is a new favorite among McCafé's espresso selections. It offers a fuller cup with toasted cereal undertones.  Additionally, the McCafé Cereal Milk Premium Roast Coffee, McDonald's first flavored hot coffee, adds a reassuringly creamy cereal milk twist to the company's famous brewed coffee.

The McCafé Cereal Milk Iced Latte, which is offered at select McDonald's, is a new favorite among McCafé's espresso selections. It offers a fuller cup with toasted cereal undertones.  Additionally, the McCafé Cereal Milk Premium Roast Coffee, McDonald's first flavored hot coffee, adds a reassuringly creamy cereal milk twist to the company's famous brewed coffee.

Whether you need a midday mood boost or are feeling adorable and frenzied, McCafé Cereal Milk is the ideal beverage to go with the occasion.  Are you still figuring out who you are as a coffee drinker?  From McCafé Premium Roast Iced Coffee, a classic, bold go-to for everyday confidence, to McCafé Iced Coffee Vanilla, for smooth and sweet, gentle mornings, to McCafé Iced Coffee Mocha, for when you want a chocolatey twist to your emotional arc, or McCafé Iced Black Coffee, for your minimalist, "don't talk to me yet" days, McDonald's offers a wide variety of coffee options that deliver on flavor and vibe.

No matter the mood, McDonald's coffee selection is there to fit your character arc, whether you're enjoying a cup in between classes, winding down after a lengthy scroll, or simply daydreaming about your commute to work.

McCafé Cereal Milk Coffee are now available together with other favorite McDonald’s coffee at McDonald’s stores nationwide — whether you’re dining in, taking out, driving thru, or ordering via McDelivery.

For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, on Instagram, and on X.