Teppanya opens in Cebu

CEBU CITY –Teppanya, a new restaurant has just opened in Cebu at the 2^nd floor, Terraces, Ayala Mall Cebu on June 17, bringing in a fiery dining combination of Japanese and Korean cuisine experience in one roof.

“We are bringing a new experience to Cebu—introducing Yakiniku and Teppanyaki dishes here at Teppanya, which is a new concept.  At Teppanya, we don’t just serve food, we entertain,” Michael Pineda, restaurant owner shared.

Pineda explained the difference between yakiniku (Korean barbecue) and teppanyaki, noting that teppanyaki uses Japanese charcoal, a new concept in his restaurant, Teppanya, which is their first branch to offer both yakiniku and teppanyaki dishes.

 

Since 2015, Teppanya aims to be a world-renowned Filipino-owned Japanese restaurant, serving guests with the freshest, high-quality, and best-tasting Japanese dishes.  The restaurant wants to be known for satisfying the guests’ palette while exciting them with its masterful culinary performances and a dining experience like no other, Pineda said.

Teppanya-Cebu is its 7^th branch nationwide, but the first in Cebu and the Visayas. For over 10 years now, Teppanya earned a significant following and reputation as a must-try and favorite go-to restaurant in the metro for its unlimited steak and seafood offerings and its viral fiery dining experience.

Cebuanos can now enjoy all-you-can-eat steak and seafood including two of the world’s most premium, rare and elusive Japanese Wagyu, Takami Ranch Kobe Beef and Ito Ranch Matsusaka A5 Wagyu.

As a special opening deal, Teppanya is making a year-long Wagyu Festival. Cebuanos can avail a free upgrade where they can order dishes under its deluxe unli and will only be charged the regular unli rate starting at P1988+, granting them savings of up to P700.

This goes on top of all the dishes they are treated to are also unlimited including sushi, sashimi, tempura, usuyaki beef roll, donburi, ramen, dessert and so much more.

To top is all, this is already inclusive of the blazing entertainment that Teppanya is known for. All guests have front-row seats to the culinary performances, and even have the chance to participate behind the grill for an unforgettable experience.

To make this debut more special, Teppanya is elevating its dining experience, giving Cebuanos an exclusive access to the restaurant’s yakiniku experience. Cebu is the first Teppanya branch to offer this service, featuring yakiniku grills inside the restaurant alongside its teppanyaki grills.

What makes this yakiniku experience a cut above other restaurants are the meats that guests can order. Teppanya’s yakiniku selections primarily consists of premium and authentic Wagyu beef including the famous Kobe beef. With its own unlimited offering, Cebuanos can order all the Wagyu beef you can eat for 60 minutes, and stay up to 90 minutes to finish your splurge.

Apart from the meats, this also includes other dishes such as maki rolls, rice, soup, salad, and fried appetizers like tempura, Wagyu croquettes and chicken karaage. For those who do not have as big an appetite, all these are also available as ala carte orders.

“Celebrate this milestone with us Teppanya invites everyone to visit our newest branch, where you can enjoy our fiery teppanyaki and yakiniku grills. Whether you are a Cebuano or simply someone travelling to Cebu, don’t forget to drop by at our Ayala Center Cebu store and be treated to not just food, but world-class entertainment,” Pineda said.

Other Teppanya ranches include SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City, Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City, GH Mall in San Juan City, Serendra in Taguig City, SM North Towers in Quezon City, Evia Lifestyle Center in Las Pinas City, and SM Clark in Pampanga. Follow them on Facebook (via our branch pages) and on Tiktok. (Photos: MBCNewman)

 

5th Cebu Food & Wine Festival 2026, a full-scale world culinary journey

CEBU CITY – The 5^th Cebu Food and Wine Festival (CFWF) 2026, a 15-day culinary journey featuring a series of curated pocket events, bringing together 24 celebrated local and international chefs, culinary talents and world-class dining partners showcasing exceptional flavors and immersive gastronomic experiences is happening from June 6 to 27 across 13 premier hotels and restaurants in Cebu and Mactan Island.

“This year’s Cebu Food and Wine Festival is designed to inspire, excite, and elevate the local dining scene and to celebrate Cebu’s vibrant food culture, bringing creativity, craftsmanship, and unforgettable dining experiences across the island,” Kate DyChangco-Anzani, CFWF founder and board of director told media in a briefing on June 6 at Marcopolo Hotel.

Anzani bared that from world-class resort kitchens to beloved local restaurants, each chef adds their own story, flavor, artistry and experience the creativity behind every plate in this year’s festival.  

In collaboration with I Love Aussie Beef and Lamb, expect elevated dishes, inspired pairings, and moments worth savoring, Anzani added that Cebu's top chefs, acclaimed culinary destinations and Michelin recognized dining restaurants to highligh Cebu's growing reputation as a world-class culinary hub for "1 Love Aussie Lamb: Cebu Food & Wine Festival Edition."

“Aussie Beef & Lamb Philippines supplied over $10,000 worth of lamb to participating hotels and restaurants, each to showcase two specially curated dishes featuring innovative applications of Australian lamb and beef, allowing guests to discover the creativity, craftsmanship and culinary potential of premium Australian red meat,” Anzani added.

This is supported by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission and Meat & Livestock Australia that began with an intensive Aussie Lamb Butchery Masterclass held at Anzani Restaurant, where participating chefs explored carcass utilization, innovative cuts, cooking techniques and menu applications under the guidance of Australian meat experts.

According to Beej Sison, Business Development Manager, Philippines of Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) that this initiative is about more than showcasing premium Australian lamb, it is about inspiring chefs, fostering innovation and strengthening partnerships across the foodservice and retail sectors.

"Cebu continues to establish itself as one of the Philippines' most exciting culinary destinations and we are proud to see Australian lamb embraced by some of the region's top chefs and dining establishments. Through initiatives like I Love Aussie Lamb and the Festival of Flavours, MLA aims to Inspire innovation, strengthen industry partnerships and give diners more opportunities to experience the quality, consistency and versatility of Australian lamb," said Valeska, Regional Manager - Southeast Asia, Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA).

Building on the momentum of the Masterclass, Anzani bared that the program culminates in the I Love Aussie Lamb: Cebu Food & Wine Festival Kick Off happening on June 13, 2026 at Crimson Resort & Spa Mactan, where guests, media and food enthusiasts can experience specially curated Aussie Lamb dishes created by participating chefs.

Baricuatro eyes farm-to-table partnership with CFWF

At the same media briefing, Cebu governor Pamela Baricuatro said, Cebu Province explores farm-to-table partnership with the Cebu Food and Wine Festival (CFWF) to strengthen food security, expand market opportunities for local farmers, and promote Cebu’s food tourism industry.

Baricuatro said that the program partnership aims to connect farmers with suppliers and benefactors, particularly focusing on transporting farm produce from the south to the north, to sell their produce directly at hotels and restaurants and the development of a mega food hub in Cebu, supported by the Department of Agriculture (DA).

             

“One of our major issues in Cebu is the lack of post-harvest facilities, including refrigerated storage which affects the life span of vegetables.  The DA intends to address this by building a mega food hub with post-harvest facilities with a potential groundbreaking in the next few months,” Baricuatro bared.

Baricutaro emphasized CFWF’s potential to strengthen farm-to-table partnerships, benefit local farmers and enhance Cebu’s reputation as a “Province of Charm.” She expressed gratitude for the support from some hotels and assured commitment for the provincial government to local agriculture, market access and food tourism. 

“The 5^th Cebu Food and Wine Festival 2026 is a unique culinary experience designed from immersive masterclasses with global culinary experts to exclusive chef collaborations, tasting menus, and signature dining showcases. Each moment is crafted to highlight creativity, technique, and the finest ingredients from around the world,” said Marco Anzani, CFWF member of the board and a world-class chef owner of Anzani Mediterranean restaurant in Cebu.

Participating establishments included some of Cebu's leading hospitality and dining destinations, namely Crimson Resort & Spa, Seda Ayala Center and Seda Central Bloc, Shangri-La Mactan, Marco Polo Plaza, Mercure Mactan, Sheraton Mactan, Fairfield by Marriott, ATO-AH, Tales & Feelings, Acacia Steakhouse, The Pig & Palm, and Anzani Restaurant. (Photos: MBCNewman)

Yombig Burger: Big Flavor, Real Value

CEBU CITY— Yombig Burger, one of Cebu’s most promising homegrown food brands today has stayed staying true to what matters most bold flavors, generous servings, and affordable meals that truly satisfy.

From a simple pandemic-era idea, Rolando “Yom” Pendon Jr., Yombig Burger founder, stayed clear with his mission to serve delicious food that is also accessible to everyday Filipinos.  It gained traction because it delivered quality meals without compromising on taste or budget.

The brand is best known for its juicy, flavor-packed burgers and it has evolved into more than just a burger shop.  Yombig Burger now stands as a go-to destination for affordable, sulit meals that fit every lifestyle from students and young professionals to families and working individuals who want value without sacrificing flavor.

Its growing popularity is anchored on consistency and identity. Every meal reflects the brand’s commitment to quality ingredients, satisfying portions, and a distinct taste that keeps customers coming back. The introduction of signature creations like the Chi-Be Burger further strengthened its reputation for innovation, giving customers something unique they can only find at Yombig Burger.

Beyond the food, the brand’s strength lies in its connection with people. Yombig Burger grew through genuine customer experiences, word-of-mouth recommendations, and strong social media presence — not heavy advertising. Customers became its biggest advocates, proudly sharing their meals and helping the brand grow organically.

From its roots in Lapu-Lapu City, Yombig Burger has steadily expanded and gained recognition as a standout Cebuano food brand.  Despite challenges in the competitive food industry, Yombig Burger remained grounded in its promise to serve meals that are big in flavor, big in value, and big in satisfaction.

Today, Yombig Burger stands as more than just a burger brand. It is a symbol of Cebuano entrepreneurship, resilience, and passion proving that with vision, hard work, and commitment to quality, a simple idea can grow into a powerful and respected local brand. (Photos: Yombig Burger/@Julienne Guanzon)

 

 

UNFPA, PhilHealth ink partnership to advance RPRH, UHC

PASIG CITY -- The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in the Philippines, the UN’s sexual and reproductive health agency, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) ink a partnership to improve maternal health, family planning, and access for millions of Filipino women and families.

This major agreement comes right after PhilHealth expanded its maternity benefit packages in April, which now covers the recommended number of prenatal and postnatal check-ups and almost tripled the coverage for normal and cesarean births, showing a strong commitment to better health for women, adolescents and indigent Filipinos.

"The PhilHealth is an indispensable partner for making universal healthcare a reality in the country. This partnership is about expanding access to quality care, supporting healthier communities, and securing the lifelong wellbeing of every Filipino family. It is more than just reducing out-of-pocket costs, it’s for a life-saving cause," said Neus Bernabeu, UNFPA Country Representative.

PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Edwin Mercado, emphasizes the corporation's dedication to making healthcare easier to access for every Filipino, particularly those who need it most.

"Our ultimate goal is to remove costs and financial barriers, within reach, for every Filipino. Through this partnership with UNFPA, and alongside our expanded maternity benefits, we are making healthcare more inclusive so that financial hardship never stops a mother from getting proper medical care,” Dr. Mercado stated.

The agreement sets a long-term plan for both UNFPA and PhilHealth combining their expertise to support the realization of Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health law (RPRH), Universal Healthcare Coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, focusing on reducing maternal mortality, improving access to sexual reproductive health, including family planning through smart investments and innovative solutions.

UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Director, Aleksandar Bodiroza, witnessed the signing ceremony and congratulated the Philippines for its landmark achievement, acknowledging that it is a powerful example in the region of how working together can turn good policies into a life-saving reality on the ground.

Under this renewed partnership, UNFPA and PhilHealth work together to ensure health policies actually reach patients and benefit communities. The agencies will strengthen ties with healthcare providers and local government units (LGUs) to encourage effective and smart investment of local funds into sustainable health programs.

At the same time, the agencies are designing more affordable health packages to make maternal care easier to access, while integrating family planning and counseling into training programs for health workers. This partnership is a major step forward in protecting the health, dignity, and rights of Filipino women, moving the country toward a fairer future. (Photos: PhilHealth)

Mezzo celebrates 9 years of hospitality excellence with partners

CEBU CITY – Mezzo Hotel celebrated nine years of timeless hospitality with its valued corporate and government partners, travel agencies, wedding coordinators, suppliers, and media partners for Shine at Nine — a Partners’ Appreciation Night filled with gratitude, recognition, delightful feasts, music, and celebration.

 Eve Marie Grace Kintanar, General Manager of Mezzo Hotel welcomed the guests and reflected on the hotel’s radiant nine-year journey while expressing heartfelt appreciation for the continued trust and support of its valued partners and suppliers.

Throughout the evening, the hotel showcased its milestones, memorable events, and achievements from the past year, highlighting its dedication to growth and hospitality excellence.

The celebration also honored the hotel's associates who have dedicated five and nine years of service to the company, recognizing their commitment and contribution to the hotel’s success.

In line with its corporate social responsibility initiatives, Mezzo Hotel likewise recognized its “Mezzo Hotel at its CORE” partner, the Bantay Dagat organization, for its partnership in coastal cleanup efforts promoting environmental sustainability and community involvement.

One of the evening’s highlights was the launch of Mezzo Hotel’s renewed Vision and Mission led by
Shannen Keisha Tan, President of Mezzo Hotel. In her message, she reflected on how the hotel remained committed to serving guests even during challenging times brought by natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes, providing temporary shelter and assistance to affected guests while maintaining quality service with compassion and integrity.

Guided by its core values of ETCH— Excellence, Trust, Camaraderie, and Heart — the renewed vision reflects Mezzo Hotel’s Vision of “mastering the essentials so completely that simplicity itself feels luxurious” — emphasizing the hotel’s commitment to delivering thoughtful service, genuine hospitality, comfort, and seamless guest experiences through consistency and attention to detail.

The celebration concluded with a heartfelt toast from. Mayet Ocariza, Director of Operations, who shared an inspiring message of gratitude to the guests, partners, and suppliers who continue to be part of Mezzo Hotel’s journey. The evening ended on a high note with music, warmth, and shared celebration among the people who have contributed to the hotel’s success through the years.

As part of its anniversary celebration, Mezzo Hotel continues to offer exciting experiences and promotions this month of May, including room deals, Sip N’ Paint session, Last Fridays Dinner Buffet, and other anniversary treats for its valued guests.

With nine remarkable years behind it, Mezzo Hotel continues to move forward with renewed purpose, stronger partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to hospitality excellence.