Kwento Ni Toto

2025/12/30

Jose Rizal is Not a National Hero

Marco Polo Demo 12/30/2025 07:01:00 PM

Jose Rizal Was Not Officially Chosen as Philippine National Hero by the Government.

For generations, Filipinos have been taught that Dr. José Rizal is the national hero of the Philippines. His face appears on currency, his novels are required reading in schools, and every Dec. 30 is marked as a national holiday. But despite his towering presence in Philippine history, Rizal was never officially declared the national hero by the Philippine government through a specific law or proclamation.

Historians note that Rizal’s status developed over time through public recognition, education, and historical events, rather than a single legal act. This distinction often surprises Filipinos, many of whom assume that his title was formally granted by the state.

Rizal’s elevation as the country’s most recognized hero gained strong momentum during the American colonial period. In 1901, American Governor-General William Howard Taft played a key role in promoting Rizal as a national symbol. At the time, U.S. authorities were attempting to establish goodwill among Filipinos after the end of Spanish rule and the Philippine-American War.

Rizal, a reformist who advocated peaceful change and criticized Spanish abuses through his writings, was seen by American officials as a figure who could unite Filipinos without encouraging armed resistance. That image aligned with American colonial interests.

In 1902, the Philippine Commission passed Act No. 345, declaring Dec. 30, the anniversary of Rizal’s execution in 1896, as a public holiday. The observance, now known as Rizal Day, cemented his place in public life and national memory. Still, the law stopped short of naming him the country’s national hero.

Long before American rule, however, Rizal was already widely revered by Filipinos. In 1898, during the height of the Philippine Revolution, revolutionary leader Emilio Aguinaldo declared Dec. 30 as a national day of mourning for Rizal and other victims of Spanish colonial rule. That act reflected how deeply Rizal’s execution had affected the Filipino people.

Despite these honors, government cultural agencies have clarified that no Filipino has been officially proclaimed as the sole national hero. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts has stated that Rizal’s standing comes from historical consensus and popular acceptance rather than formal designation.

Several factors explain why Rizal emerged as the country’s most recognized hero. His execution made him a martyr. His novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, exposed colonial abuses and awakened national consciousness. His life represented intellect, moral courage, and love of country—qualities that resonated across generations.

Education also played a major role. Rizal’s life and works became central to school curricula, public commemorations, and civic rituals. Over time, these practices shaped how Filipinos understood heroism and national identity.

In the 1990s, a government-created National Heroes Committee studied the possibility of formally naming national heroes, including Rizal and other revolutionary figures. No final proclamation followed, leaving Rizal’s status unchanged, though it was honored, but unofficial.

Today, Rizal remains the most recognized symbol of Filipino nationalism. While he may not hold the title by law, his place in history is firmly secured by the people themselves.

In the end, Rizal did not need an official declaration. History, memory, and public respect made him the hero Filipinos recognize him to be.

references :

https://ncca.gov.ph/about-culture-and-arts/culture-profile/selection-and-proclamation-of-national-heroes-and-laws-honoring-filipino-historical-figures/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://nhcp.gov.ph/historical-context-and-legal-basis-of-rizal-day-and-other-memorials-in-honor-of-jose-rizal/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jose-Rizal?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.joserizal.com/legacy/why-rizal-is-our-national-hero/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2019/06/19/1927792/rizal-not-national-hero-filipinos-believed-he-was?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2025/12/27

updates

How HONOR X9 Earned Its Spot as the Philippines’ Leading Mid-Range Smartphone

Toto 12/27/2025 12:29:00 PM

Leading global AI smart device brand HONOR Philippines continues to lead the mid-range smartphone segment, driven by the strong performance of its popular HONOR X9 series. Since the launch of the HONOR X9a 5G in 2023, the company has consistently rolled out successful models that resonated with consumers. What began as a product release has since evolved into a yearly campaign, with each new HONOR X9 launch now an anticipated tradition for the brand and its fans.

“When we launched HONOR X9a 5G, we literally had zero expectations. What we had was hope and confidence in our capabilities, and then it exceeded all expectations. We did not let the success get into our heads; we just thought it was beginner’s luck. So, we leveled up with HONOR X9b 5G, and again it became a massive hit. Then HONOR X9c 5G came and it was our biggest feat yet, outdoing everything we’ve done in 2023 and 2024,” said HONOR Philippines Vice President Stephen Cheng.

The HONOR X9 series has been synonymous with its exceptional durability, raising the bar year after year. What began with 5-foot drop tests evolved into a 50-foot intense drop test-- and this year, HONOR X9c pushed to the extreme, dropped from a helicopter hundreds of feet above ground, further proving its unmatched toughness.

“One can only think about how we can even top the past three generations of HONOR X9 series. We must admit, it has become a challenge at this point, but with the technology and talent we have at HONOR, it is indeed a good challenge. I’m very excited for everyone to witness what we have been planning for the past few months,” Cheng continued.

That unforgettable moment—when 264 brave participants dropped their HONOR X9c 5G simultaneously—earned HONOR a coveted spot in the Guiness World Records for “The Most People Performing a Mobile Phone Drop Test Simultaneously.” This historic feat positioned HONOR Philippines as a benchmark in delivering credible, impactful messaging, reinforcing HONOR’s place as the standard for innovation, durability, and trust with the Filipino consumers.

The question remains, is HONOR ready to follow the success of the past HONOR X9 series? Stay tuned.

For more information and exciting announcements, you may visit HONOR’s website www.hihonor.com or social media platforms: Facebook (Facebook.com/HonorPhilippines), Instagram (Instagram.com/honorph/) and TikTok: (Tiktok.com/@honorphilippines).

In the meantime, check out HONOR’s wide array of mobile phones, tablets, and laptops at any HONOR Experience and Partner Stores nationwide (https://www.hihonor.com/ph/retailers/) or online via Shopee (https://bit.ly/HONORPHShopee), Lazada (https://bit.ly/HONORPHLaz) and TikTok Shop (https://bit.ly/HONORTikTokShop).

2025/12/23

Vice Ganda

Vice Ganda, Nadine Lustre reunite in MMFF 2025 entry “Call Me Mother”

Toto 12/23/2025 10:08:00 PM

Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre reunite on the big screen in Call Me Mother, a comedy-drama that explores the joys and pains of motherhood. The film is an official entry to the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival and opens in cinemas nationwide on December 25.

The movie marks the highly anticipated reunion of Vice and Nadine, who last worked together years ago in the fantasy-comedy film Petrang Kabayo. Their return to the screen together has drawn strong interest from fans, highlighted by the film’s official trailer, which reached 20 million views in just over 24 hours across social media platforms. The hashtag #CallMeMotherFullTrailer also became the top trending topic nationwide following its release on December 2.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Jun Robles Lana, Call Me Mother tells a heartfelt story about unconditional love, sacrifice, and commitment. The film looks at motherhood beyond biology, showing how love and responsibility can take many forms.

The story centers on two mothers with very different lives. Twinkle, played by Vice Ganda, is a former beauty pageant coach who becomes a devoted queer adoptive mother to Angelo, portrayed by Lucas Andalio. Twinkle believes that being a parent is a choice rooted in love, care, and daily sacrifice.

In contrast, Mara, played by Nadine Lustre, is Angelo’s biological mother. Once a teenage pageant star, Mara grows up to become a high-fashion model. She lives with deep regret after abandoning her child years earlier to chase her dreams.

Their paths cross again when Twinkle reaches out to Mara to finalize Angelo’s adoption. Twinkle plans to bring the child abroad for a new job, but Mara agrees to sign the papers only under one condition: Twinkle must help her win the biggest beauty pageant in the country.

As Twinkle reluctantly agrees, tensions rise. Mara slowly grows closer to Angelo, forcing Twinkle to confront his fears, insecurities, and what it truly means to be a parent. The film asks whether love is proven by blood or by the willingness to stay, sacrifice, and put a child first.

The cast also includes Pinoy Big Brother Celebrity Collab housemates Klarisse De Guzman, Mika Salamanca, Brent Manalo, Esnyr Ranollo, River Joseph, and Shuvee Etrata. They are joined by veteran and supporting actors Chanda Romero, Carmi Martin, Ces Quesada, John “Sweet” Lapus, MC Muah, Iyah Mina, Jennifer Sevilla, Robert Ortega, Tanya Gomez, and Divine Tetay.

Call Me Mother is produced by Star Cinema, The IdeaFirst Company, and Viva Films. Blending humor with emotional depth, the film aims to offer a warm and relatable story for families this holiday season.

The movie opens in cinemas nationwide beginning December 25. For updates, follow Star Cinema on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, and @abscbnpr on major social media platforms.

updates

‘Love You So Bad’ Puts a Fresh Spin on a Familiar Love Triangle at the 51st MMFF

Toto 12/23/2025 09:42:00 PM

Love triangles are nothing new in Filipino films. The woman caught between two men, each willing to do anything for her love, is a story audiences have seen many times before. Yet “Love You So Bad,” an entry in the 51st Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF), finds new energy in the familiar by letting each character bring a distinct style of love, choice, and growth.

Starring Bianca de Vera, Dustin Yu, and Will Ashley, the film is a youthful romance that leans into longing, confusion, and self-discovery. Directed by Mae Cruz Alviar and written by Crystal San Miguel, “Love You So Bad” is a co-production of Star Cinema, GMA Pictures, and Regal Entertainment.

Set to premiere on December 25, 2025, the film officially joined the roster of the 51st MMFF on October 10, when it was announced as part of the festival’s second batch of entries at the University of Makati Performing Arts Theater.

At the center of the story is Savannah, played by Bianca de Vera. She is sassy, confident, and unapologetically herself—a college senior determined to live life on her own terms. But her carefully drawn lines begin to blur when she finds herself torn between two very different men.

One is LA, portrayed by Dustin Yu, a bad boy and undeniable chick magnet who fuels Savannah’s wild side. The other is Vic, played by Will Ashley, a principled and ambitious young man who challenges her to grow and look beyond her comfort zone.

“Sassy, confident and unapologetically herself, college senior Savannah (Bianca de Vera) is determined to live life on her own terms,” the film’s synopsis reads. “She finds herself torn between two very different men… As old wounds resurface and difficult choices confront her, she must decide who she really wants to be and who she dares to love.”

The love triangle may sound cliché, but what makes it compelling is how LA and Vic pursue Savannah in their own ways—one with charm and reckless confidence, the other with quiet sincerity and purpose. Each brings out a different side of her, forcing Savannah to confront not just who she loves, but who she wants to become.

Excitement around the film has steadily grown in the months leading up to its release. On December 1, Star Cinema unveiled character posters of Savannah, Vic, and LA, designed in a playful slam book style that gave fans a glimpse into each character’s personality.

A week later, on December 8, the cast and creative team gathered at the Dolphy Theater for the film’s Press & Party media day and official trailer launch. De Vera, Yu, and Ashley, along with Alviar and San Miguel, shared personal and heartfelt responses to questions from the media, adding depth to the story they are bringing to the screen.

The official teaser offers a closer look at the film’s emotional push and pull. In one key scene, Savannah stands in the middle of a crowded party as time seems to stop. She locks eyes with LA—then Vic. The moment captures the heart of the film: attraction pulling her in two directions at once.

Set to the mellow track “Sikulo,” sung by Angela Ken, Maki, and Nhiko, the teaser shows Savannah moving closer to LA before cutting to Vic, equally stunned and drawn in. A warm smile, a gentle embrace, and the question of who she is holding linger in the air.

The tension builds until Savannah suddenly faints. As both men carry her to what appears to be her pink bedroom, they are caught off guard by her intimate request: “Dito ka lang.” Whether she is speaking to one man, both, or to a deeper need for comfort is left unanswered.

Almost-kisses, whispered words, and glimpses of LA and Vic’s contrasting courting styles fill the teaser, hinting at the emotional stakes ahead.

“Love You So Bad” marks the big-screen collaboration of the three stars, following their appearance in “Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Collab Edition.” The film also stands as Star Cinema’s second MMFF entry this year, joining “Call Me Mother,” starring Vice Ganda and Nadine Lustre, and directed by Jun Robles Lana.

As the MMFF lineup for 2025 is completed, “Love You So Bad” stands out not for reinventing the love triangle, but for embracing it—showing that even the most familiar stories can still feel fresh when told with heart, honesty, and well-drawn characters.

“Love You So Bad” opens exclusively in Philippine cinemas on December 25.

White Castle Whisky goes light with charming Ashley Rivera for 2025 calendar

Marco Polo Demo 12/23/2025 09:03:00 PM

The brand’s new Calendar Girl is a charismatic and comedic GMA Network artist, digital creator, and one of today’s most recognizable online and television personalities.

White Castle Whisky has named Ashley Rivera as its 2025 Calendar Girl, marking a lighter and more playful turn in the brand’s long-running tradition. A GMA Network artist and digital creator known for her strong screen presence and comedic timing, Ashley brings a refreshing tone to the calendar, in keeping with White Castle Light Whisky’s tagline, “Dapat light lang!”

For many Filipinos, the White Castle calendar has long been easy to recognize. During my teenage years, a glimpse of a white horse, a glamorous model, and a castle backdrop or sometimes a beach, was enough to know it was a White Castle calendar. It was one of the most iconic visuals of the time, with Cristine Gonzales standing out as one of the most vividly remembered faces from that era.

The official unveiling of the White Castle Whisky 2026 Calendar was held during a special press conference last December 19, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Rampa Drag Club in Quezon City.

Ashley now joins the iconic roster of White Castle calendar models, which includes Evangeline Pascual, Lorna Tolentino, Techie Agbayani, Carmi Martin, Maria Isabel Lopez, Cristine Gonzales, Glydel Mercado, Roxanne Guinoo, Niñoong Ry, SassaGirl, Ria Atayde, Angelie “Pench” Andanar, and others.

This year’s calendar blends classic White Castle appeal with contemporary Filipino pop culture. Ashley is presented as confident and charming, reflecting the spirit of today’s empowered Filipina while highlighting her natural wit and humor. Her selection underscores the brand’s values of individuality, authentic self-expression, and enjoying life’s moments with a light touch.

“I’m incredibly honored and thrilled,” Ashley said. “White Castle Whisky has such an iconic place in Filipino culture. To be chosen as the 2025 calendar girl feels surreal. I’ve been dreaming about this after being inspired by Tita Carmi Martin, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we created.”

A GMA Sparkle artist, Ashley gained a wider following as a former regular cast member of the long-running sketch comedy show Bubble Gang, along with appearances in other network programs. Before her mainstream television career, she built a strong online presence through TikTok and YouTube with her comedic persona, “Petra Mahalimuyak.”

In 2024, she launched the podcast Chicks 2 Go with fellow comedian and internet personality Hershey Neri. The show features casual conversations, humor, and relatable stories. In one of its early episodes, Ashley shared her long-time dream of becoming a calendar girl, inspired by her idol Carmi Martin, the White Castle calendar model in 1984.

White Castle Whisky continues its legacy of celebrating beauty, talent, and Filipino identity. As the brand evolves, it remains committed to honoring tradition while embracing a modern and bolder look, now represented by its newest calendar muse.

For more information on White Castle Whisky and updates on Ashley Rivera, follow White Castle Whisky on Facebook.

2025/12/18

updates

Josh Groban Brings GEMS World Tour to Manila on February 18, 2026

Toto 12/18/2025 10:02:00 PM

Tony, EMMY, and five-time GRAMMY Award–nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban has announced his newest tour, ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR,’ with a concert in MANILA on February 18, 2026, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. The show is presented by Wilbros Live. Tickets go on sale on November 22, Saturday, at 11 a.m. via SMTickets.com and SM Tickets outlets nationwide.

Josh Groban is known for one of the most recognizable voices in music. He continues to draw audiences as both a powerful vocalist and a versatile performer. Groban has sold more than 35 million albums worldwide, headlined major venues across continents, and appeared in film and television. His catalog includes chart-topping albums such as Josh Groban (5x-platinum), Closer (6x-platinum), Noël (7x-platinum), Awake (2x-platinum), Illuminations, All That Echoes, Stages (his first UK No. 1 album), Bridges, and his most recent release, Harmony. He has performed to sold-out crowds in North America, Europe, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Asia.

Groban expanded his career on stage and screen with his Broadway debut in 2016, starring in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, which earned him a Tony® Award nomination for Best Lead Actor in a Musical. He also appeared in popular shows such as Glee, The Simpsons, The Office, CSI: NY, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and The Crazy Ones, as well as films including Coffee Town, Muppets Most Wanted, and Crazy, Stupid, Love. In 2018, he starred in the NETFLIX series The Good Cop. In 2022, Groban returned to Radio City Music Hall for his Great Big Radio City Show residency, launched a nationwide tour, and portrayed the Beast in ABC’s Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration.

In the spring of 2023, Josh returned to Broadway in the revival of Sweeney Todd, taking on the title role and earning Tony and GRAMMY nominations, along with strong critical praise. Deadline wrote, “Groban makes himself over into a full-blown, and fully developed, Broadway star…His Sweeney is by turns sympathetic and monstrous.” The New York Times noted that the role was “gorgeously sung,” praising his “quasi-operatic pop baritone” and clear delivery of every word.

This year, Josh released Gems, an 18-track collection spanning his career. He also performed a sold-out, exclusive five-night run at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, featuring a hits-focused production under the same title.

Josh recently announced Hidden Gems, a special collection that gathers ten fan-favorite and rare tracks—many previously unavailable on streaming platforms—along with one brand-new song. Over the years, he has released deluxe editions, fan exclusives, and international tracks, now curated into one collection that highlights the range of his music. To mark the announcement, Josh shared his new song, “The Constant,” a collaboration written with acclaimed songwriters Pasek and Paul (The Greatest Showman, La La Land). The track adds something new while honoring the songs longtime fans have cherished.

Beyond music and performance, Groban remains active in arts education and advocacy. Through his Find Your Light Foundation, he continues to support programs that enrich the lives of young people through arts, education, and cultural awareness.

2025/12/16

updates

Kim Sejeong’s ‘Tenth Letter’ Fan Concert Set for Manila in 2026

Marco Polo Demo 12/16/2025 10:29:00 PM

South Korean singer and actress Kim Sejeong is officially set to reunite with her Filipino fans as she brings her 2026 Fan Concert to Manila on February 21, 2026.

Conceived as a heartfelt and intimate gathering, Tenth Letter goes beyond a typical concert. It is a special night where Sejeong shares her music, personal stories, and meaningful moments with fans who have been part of her journey through the years. Audiences can expect powerful vocal performances, warm interactions, and sincere messages of gratitude that reflect her growth as both an artist and a performer.

The event details have now been officially announced. The fan concert will take place at the New Frontier Theater in Quezon City, with the show starting at 6:00 PM. The Manila stop is presented by Wilbros Live.

Tickets are already on sale via TicketNet Online and all TicketNet outlets, with prices inclusive of ticketing charges. Ticket tiers are priced as follows: Diamond at ₱11,500, VIP at ₱8,500, Orchestra at ₱5,000, Loge at ₱4,500, and Balcony at ₱2,800.

Fans attending the concert may also enjoy exclusive fan benefits depending on their ticket tier. These can include a hi-bye session, group photos, and signed posters, giving fans the chance to create lasting memories with the artist.

Kim Sejeong is widely admired for her versatility, balancing a successful music career with acclaimed roles in popular Korean dramas. Her strong vocals, genuine charm, and heartfelt performances have earned her a dedicated following worldwide, including a loyal fan base in the Philippines.

The 2026 Kim Sejeong Fan Concert in Manila promises to be an emotional and memorable evening, celebrating the special bond between Sejeong and her fans.

2025/12/12

SM Supermalls

SM and Jobstreet Champion Filipino MSMEs at 2025 MSME Summit

Toto 12/12/2025 05:08:00 PM

Entrepreneurs and partners gather at the MSME Summit 2025 hosted by Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines in partnership with SM Supermalls at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia.

Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, in partnership with SM Supermalls, welcomed entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and key stakeholders to the MSME Summit 2025 at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. The event showcased the shared commitment of Jobstreet and SM Supermalls to empower Filipino micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and foster sustainable growth for the nation’s backbone industries. Ms. Dannah Majarocon, Managing Director of Jobstreet by SEEK Philippines, highlighted the summit’s goal: supporting MSMEs as a driving force of the Philippine economy.

“SM is not just a venue—it’s a partner in every MSME’s success story,” said Joaquin L. San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls. “When MSMEs grow, the nation grows. Every small business that thrives represents a dream realized, a livelihood sustained, and a community strengthened.” SM’s own growth story mirrors that of its MSME partners. From a small shoe store in Carriedo to 88 malls nationwide, SM understands the value of small beginnings. “Almost 70% of our tenants are MSMEs—their success is the foundation of SM’s continued growth,” San Agustin added.

Through the SM for MSMEs program, the company provides high-foot-traffic spaces, market access, and visibility to help entrepreneurs scale sustainably.

Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College accepts her Plaque of Appreciation from Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet (right) by Seek Country Marketing head.

Key sessions addressed practical needs for MSMEs. Participants learned how to scale their first hire with Mr. Henry Jose “Joey” Yusingco of Jobstreet, explored AI applications for small businesses with Ms. Arlynne Roa-Awayan of Asia Pacific College, and received insights on logistics and operations from Lalamove PH, 2GO Travel, and DITO BizBayan. Ms. Life Dawn Cervero of TikTok guided attendees on smart marketing on a budget, while a panel from BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo, and Asialink shared finance hacks for sustainable growth.

Industry experts Ms.Flor Tanay of Lalamove PH, Mr. Francis John Cha of 2GO Travel, and Mr. Gabriel Cui of DITO of BizBayan present logistics and digital solutions designed to help MSMEs scale.

MSME Summit 2025 partners BDO, Maya, RCBC, BanKo and Asialink host a panel learning session tackling finance hacks for MSMEs

Success stories, like Kay & Karl Santos of 1919 Chocolate, inspired participants with real-life examples of scaling Filipino businesses. Partner demos and the Partner Passport Challenge reinforced networking, learning, and practical engagement.

Attendees make their rounds at the Partner Passport Challenge, visiting different booths to learn about hiring solutions, business tools, digital platforms, and partner services that support MSME growth.

The MSME Summit 2025 reaffirmed SM Supermalls’ commitment to Filipino entrepreneurship, providing programs, spaces, and partnerships that help MSMEs innovate, scale, and thrive in a rapidly evolving economy.

YAYOI

What’s New at SM Supermalls? Big Thrills, Bigger Experiences in Cebu!

Toto 12/12/2025 04:55:00 PM

Life’s more fun when you have more access to discovering new things. From small errands to bigger adventures, you get to enjoy the best of living when you continue to expand the things you love! SM Supermalls brings a new era of firsts to explore and discover, with exciting brands heading your way—now closer than ever, right here in Cebu. With SM Supermalls, you no longer have to travel across regions, because the best experiences are now within reach.

Sweet & Savory at SM City Cebu

Craving for some authentic Japanese food experience? Check out the newly opened YAYOI—savor the taste of traditional Japanese Teishoku, offering a completely satisfying set meal of main entrée, steamed rice, miso soup, and seasonal sides.

Lookout for these food spots heading your way this May, serving food items you’ll love closer to you:

Manam—a celebrated Filipino bistro offering both classic and modern interpretations of traditional dishes is opening its first-in-Cebu branch this May 26.

Ooma—a modern Japanese dining spot known for its bold flavors and creative dishes, blending traditional Japanese cuisine with contemporary twists. It is opening its first-in-Cebu store this May 28.

Café Laguna—a well-established Filipino restaurant chain, renowned for its authentic Tagalog-style dishes, bringing the comforting flavors of Luzon to the Visayas, is set to open this May 8.

Abaca Baking Company—beloved Cebu-based café and bakery chain serving artisan-crafted breads, all-day breakfast offerings, and premium coffee selections, opening this May 10.

Ramen Kuroda—a popular Japanese restaurant serving authentic, high-quality ramen, crafted with homemade noodles and rich, flavorful broths.

Indoor Sports & Japanese Favorite Meals at SM J Mall

The experience of Japan continues in Mandaue City, Cebu with Yuki-Kun—savor Japanese cuisines, featuring familiar flavors and beloved dishes available at the mall’s Food Hall area. Expect more fun soon with even more First in Cebu experiences:

Ramen Nagi—authentic, customizable ramen bowls featuring rich, savory soup and handcrafted noodles, because your J Mall experience isn’t complete without a sizzling bowl of this Japanese favorite. iSwing Golf Arena—enjoy a round of golf without the scorching heat of the sun, all thanks to their indoor, high-tech golf simulation experience.

Coffee & Treats at SM Seaside City Cebu

Satisfy your sweet cravings with these new dessert and dining destinations opening their first stores in Cebu:

Beard Papa’s—Japanese cream puff chain known for its freshly baked choux pastries which opened last April 25.

Conti’s—the Filipino bakeshop beloved for its iconic cake specials and signature comforting savory dishes, opened its first-in-Cebu store last April 30.

Giving coffee lovers more to look forward to, the rapidly growing Pickup Coffee headlines their upcoming first-in-SM premium café concept, offering elevated brews perfect for a productive lifestyle.

Never run out of things to add to your itinerary. Explore beyond limits and discover exciting firsts here in Cebu with SM Supermalls.

Expand your horizons here in Cebu—only here 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!