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| A McDonald’s branch in Santa Rosa, Laguna applies historic reconstruction standards, incorporating elements of a century-old ancestral house into its design (Image Source: Manila Standard/McDonald's Philippines) |
What if a visit to McDonald’s could transport you back in time while still serving your favorite meal? In the Philippines, that’s now a reality. McDonald’s Philippines operates five heritage stores across the country where customers can enjoy a meal while soaking in the country’s architectural and cultural history. Each location is housed in a restored or reconstructed building with historic significance, blending modern dining with a sense of the past.
Earlier this year, Santa Rosa City, Laguna welcomed a new McDonald’s that reconstructed an over-100-year-old ancestral home. Some original adobe stones from the site were incorporated into the design and the architecture mirrors the era of the original house. Visitors can enjoy the latest menu offerings amid wooden beams, stonework, and other period features. The project followed strict guidelines from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), ensuring the building’s historical and cultural integrity was maintained. Online reactions have been enthusiastic. One Facebook user commented, “Should be like this sa mga establishments natin, hopefully to preserve culture,” while a TikTok post read, “Eto naman talaga dapat ‘yung style per house, per store. Dapat may culture pa rin tayong pinapakita and tradition, mixed with modern.” Heritage experts describe such projects as “historic reconstruction”, a meticulous process that rebuilds a structure to resemble its original appearance. In the Philippines, these reconstructions require NHCP approval, detailed construction plans, and careful choice of materials to preserve built heritage. “McDonald’s Philippines has enormous respect and love for Filipino culture and history. As a proudly 100 percent Filipino‑owned company, we stay connected to what customers value — time with family, celebrating local traditions, and preserving our heritage structures,” said McDonald's Philippines Managing Director Margot Torres.
Other heritage branches include McDonald’s Vigan in the UNESCO Heritage City of Vigan, Ilocos Sur; McDonald’s Muralla in historic Intramuros, Manila; McDonald’s Silay in Negros Occidental, known as the Paris of Negros for its preserved mansions and arts scene; and McDonald’s San Pedro Bayan in one of the oldest houses in San Pedro, Laguna. These locations retain original architectural features such as stone and woodwork, pillars, windows, and beams. Modern materials are introduced subtly, blending with the historic look. Special care is taken at sites like Vigan and Intramuros to preserve the overall historic atmosphere. For those curious about what it’s like to enjoy a Chicken McDo meal or grab the latest Happy Meal toy surrounded by Filipino history, these heritage stores offer the experience — proof that fast food and cultural appreciation can co-exist.
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Cyberzone Celebrates The Rise Of Filipino Tabletop Champions
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/SM Supermalls) |
Once a side event, Filipino tabletop gaming now takes the spotlight with its own Cyberzone tournament series, showing the growing role of strategy, creativity, and community in the country’s gaming scene. Previously featured as part of the Cyberzone Challenger Series and Cyberzone Geek Con DX, tabletop gaming now has its own stage for players to showcase their skills.
“This is a deliberate move to spotlight the tabletop pioneers whose community-building and tactical energy have long been a fundamental part of our gaming culture. We are creating an all-out experience that celebrates their craft through the unique tech and gaming moments only Cyberzone and SM Supermalls can deliver,” said SM Supermalls Vice President of Marketing and Cyberzone Operations Patrick Pacla. Each tournament offers a Php20,000 prize pool with champions set to be crowned in both Magic: The Gathering and Beyblade X during the series’ final leg. The event is inclusive, welcoming beginners at the Neutral Grounds booth for “Learn To Play” sessions and expert tips to sharpen skills.
The grand finale of the Cyberzone Tabletop Throwdown will take place at the main atrium of SM City BF Parañaque on March 28-29, 2026. Freeplay registration opens on March 28, giving players a chance to familiarize themselves with the arena before the main tournament on March 29. Slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis through the SM Malls Online (SMO) app, downloadable via the App Store and Google Play.
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Next-Gen Creators From DLS-CSB Stage Multimedia Show Exploring Art As A Living System
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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/Guia Rose Buquiron) |
A new generation of Filipino artists is presenting its work in a multimedia exhibition that combines traditional craft and digital innovation. ORGANICA: Emergence, a multimedia arts exhibition, will feature more than 170 works ranging from prints and paintings to digital installations and interactive media. The showcase highlights the portfolios of graduating Multimedia Arts students from the De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB).
Set to be held on March 26-28, 2026 at Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati, the exhibition brings together a wide range of mediums including illustration, graphic design, photography, 3D modeling, animation, video clips, motion graphics, and game design. Traditional formats such as sculpture, paintings, and zines are also included. Anchored on the theme of Bio Art, the show presents art as a living system that grows and evolves through human creativity. The concept highlights how ideas develop through collaboration, experimentation, and diverse creative voices. The exhibition also offers an immersive experience with installation pieces and multimedia works reflecting the individual journeys of the student artists.
Organizers describe the show as both a celebration and a transition point for the graduating class. Aside from presenting their work to the public, the exhibition provides an opportunity for the young creatives to connect with industry professionals as they prepare to begin their careers in the creative sector. ORGANICA: Emergence is free and open to the public.
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Jollibee Launches New Super Meal Featuring Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, And Yumburger On One Plate
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| (Image Source: Jollibee) |
As rising fuel prices and higher costs of basic goods continue to affect Filipinos, Jollibee, the country’s number one fastfood chain, has introduced a new Super Meal that brings several of its bestselling products together in one satisfyingly delicious serving aimed at giving customers more value for their money. For the first time, the Super Meal combines three of Jollibee’s favorites on one plate. The new Super Meal A features Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Yumburger, served with steamed rice and a drink, all for ₱185. As the lowest-priced option in the big meals category, it gives customers a complete and satisfying meal without stretching their budget.
“Our Super Meals have been loved by Jollibee customers because every meal is more than just food. It’s a joyful moment they look forward to. We understand everyone’s looking to make smart, practical choices these days. That’s why our newest Super Meal brings together all the favorites, including Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and Yumburger, so customers can get great value for their money and enjoy a complete, comforting meal any day of the week,” said Jollibee Philippines Vice President of Marketing Dorothy Dee-Ching. Diners seeking variety can choose from three distinct 2026 Super Meal combinations. Super Meal A includes a piece of Chickenjoy, a half-portion of Jolly Spaghetti, a Yumburger, steamed rice, and a regular drink, offering a mix of the brand’s classic favorites. Super Meal B pairs Chickenjoy and Jolly Spaghetti with regular Jolly Crispy Fries, rice, and a drink, providing a balance of textures for those who prefer a crunchier option. Meanwhile, Super Meal C features Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, and a Burger Steak, served with rice and a drink for a heartier, protein-focused choice.
The new Super Meal is now available starting March 16 in all Jollibee stores nationwide via dine-in, takeout, drive-thru, and delivery. If you're craving more Jollibee treats and exclusives, head to www.jollibee.com.ph for the latest updates, order your favorites at https://order.jollibee.com or the Jollibee Delivery app, and follow Jollibee on social media for more JOYful surprises.
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Singapore Airlines And Mastercard Launch Limited Time Campaign To Offer Travelers Bonus KrisShop E-Vouchers
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| (Image Source: Philippines Graphic/Singapore Airlines) |
Singapore Airlines (SIA) has collaborated with Mastercard to launch “Travel Made Rewarding With Mastercard”, a limited-time campaign that offers bonus rewards exclusively for SIA customers in the Philippines. Travelers who book premium cabins to select destinations with an eligible Mastercard using promo code SQMC26 get to enjoy exclusive fares of up to 20% off and stand to receive KrisShop e-Vouchers. Each eligible Suites, First Class, or Business Class customer who complete their bookings by March 25, 2026 and are travelling until September 30, 2026 will receive a KrisShop e-Voucher worth SGD100 (approximately Php4,200), while each eligible Premium Economy Class customer will receive a KrisShop e-voucher worth SGD50 (approximately Php2,100).
To enjoy this offer, customers can register their purchase through tinyurl.com/SQMC26Vouchers and redeem their vouchers at KrisShop.com where they can browse through a curated lineup of brands across beauty, technology, fashion, and lifestyle categories. They can use their Mastercard card for any additional purchases beyond the voucher value, and have their purchases delivered either to their flight or straight to their home. Singapore Airlines Philippines General Manager Liwei Tai said, “We’re delighted to introduce this exciting campaign to provide our customers more benefits when they fly with Singapore Airlines. Our collaboration with Mastercard invites customers to explore KrisShop’s unique retail offerings and create memorable moments that go beyond their flight. It demonstrates our commitment to enhancing our offerings, providing exceptional value, and delivering a rewarding travel experience for our customers in the Philippines.” Mastercard Philippines Country Manager Jason Crasto said, “Singapore Airlines has been a trusted, long-term partner in offering exceptional travel benefits to Mastercard cardholders. The launch of this campaign signifies Mastercard’s commitment to bringing cardholders closer to their passions, ensuring that every journey is a rewarding experience, whether they’re travelling for business or leisure.”
Making this promotion more exciting, Mastercard cardholders in the Philippines also get access to exclusive fares to select destinations using promo code SQMC26 on March 5-31, 2026, valid for travel on March 10-December 31, 2026. For more information on the “Travel Made Rewarding with Mastercard” promo, visit tinyurl.com/SQMC26. Terms and conditions apply. This promotion is conducted per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-249728 Series of 2026.
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SM Supermalls, Generation HOPE Break Ground For First Classrooms In Pampanga
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| L-R: Hon. Carmen M. Cordova, Barangay Chairwoman of Brgy. San Isidro, Sta. Ana, Pampanga; SM Supermalls Vice President for Mall Operations Johanna Melissa N. Rupisan; SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Mall Operations Andrea M. Rodriguez; San Isidro National High School Principal Jackeline P. Merano; DepEd District of Sta. Ana Public Schools District Supervisor Eloida N. Labrador; Marybeth Mateo Ortiz, Executive Assistant to Sta. Ana, Pampanga Municipal Mayor Ferdinand Labung; Generation HOPE Partnerships Lead Angel Antonio (Image Source: Manila Standard/SM Supermalls) |
SM Supermalls, in partnership with Generation HOPE and the Department of Education, marked a milestone in its nation-building advocacy and commitment to empowering communities with the groundbreaking of two new public school classrooms at San Isidro National High School in Sta. Ana, Pampanga last March 2, 2026.
Representing SM Supermalls at the ceremony was Vice President and Division Head for North Luzon Mall Operations Johannah Melissa Nieva-Rupisan. The classrooms are the first to be built under the Build a Classroom project, part of SM’s commitment to support the construction of 10 public school classrooms nationwide through the campaign “HOPE In A Movie At SM”. The initiative, led by Generation HOPE in partnership with the Department of Education, brings together private sector partners to help address classroom shortages and improve learning environments, all for Filipino students.
“Nation-building is at the heart of SM Cares. Through our partnership with Generation HOPE, we strengthen our mission to create impact that lasts for generations,” said Rupisan. Located within the community served by SM City Pampanga, the project reflects SM Supermalls’ All For You commitment to uplift communities close to its malls and invest in the future of Filipino learners.
