MESCO will celebrate its 70th anniversary with a three-day series of free manufacturing seminars, machinery exhibitions, and live equipment demonstrations from October 14 to 16, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the MESCO Headquarters in Kapitolyo, Pasig City.

In this interview, Mr. Takashi Baba shares his observations on the changes he has witnessed in the Philippines, JICA’s role in the country, and its future initiatives.

Thinne Almeda Cafe in Pasay is a pet-friendly cafe at MOA Square serving coffee, brunch, pasta, pastries, petite cakes, and specialty egg foam drinks.

Pastry chef Sonja Ocampo expands beyond the cupcakes and celebration cakes she has long been known for with By Sonja, a café and bakery along Chino Roces Avenue Extension in Makati City.

Japanese comfort food finds a welcoming home in Marikina at Toyama Eatery, a neighborhood restaurant at La Arcada Building along Gil Fernando Avenue.

Katsuya, recognized as Japan’s No. 1 Katsudon Brand, has officially made its way to the Philippines with its first local branch at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Away from the busy streets of Salcedo Village in Makati, Tomono Lounge offers a more relaxed setting high above the city.

For diners looking to enjoy Korean barbecue beyond the usual unlimited-grill setup, WOORI Korean BBQ House in Makati puts the focus on a more deliberate Korean dining experience centered on grilled meats, shared dishes, and time around the table.

From October 1 to November 29, 2026, the Japanese Film Festival will bring Japanese films to audiences across the country, offering an opportunity to discover Japan’s culture, traditions, and storytelling through cinema.

Momzilla Fair 2026 comes to SMX Aura in Taguig on October 3 to 4 with over 200 brands, discounts of up to 70%, parenting talks, and family activities.

Japanese-inspired living in BGC takes another step forward as The Seasons Residences welcomes two additions designed around everyday comfort, hospitality, and modern city living.

Film Concerts PH proudly presents Jujutsu Kaisen in Concert, a live concert experience that brings the acclaimed anime phenomenon to life through a hybrid ensemble of classical and modern instruments, happening at Newport Performing Arts Theater on November 28 and 29, 2026.

A colorful celebration of Filipino culture is coming to New York City this October! In celebration of Filipino American History Month, HALO-HALO SALO-SALO is bringing together the best of Filipino creativity, flavors, and community for a day filled with exciting discoveries and cultural experiences.

Terroir Wines PH at Allegro Center in Makati offers a curated selection of fine wines from forward-thinking producers, along with a tasting room, wine delivery, and a private wine cave for intimate gatherings.

Pierre’s Reserve in Quezon City is a speakeasy bar serving craft cocktails, craft beer, whisky, comfort food, and desserts in a relaxed setting.

Opened in December 2025 at Green Sun Hotel, Restaurant FLOW presents these influences through a fine-dining degustation built on cultural memory, technique, and exploration.

La Loca is now open at Filinvest Shoppes Mimosa in Clark, Pampanga, offering a lively Spanish dining experience with tapas, paella, sangria, and cocktails.

This October, Circuit Makati is turning up the creativity with ARTober, a month-long celebration and exhibition that brings different forms of art together across the city’s premier creative district.

Designers, artists, and creative communities are set to gather in Makati this October for Designing Together, a day-long panel discussion centered on creating conditions that encourage people to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas.

The excitement of motorsports takes center stage as the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Philippines Esports GT Championship 2026 National Finals heads to Function Room 1, 2nd Floor, SMX Convention Center in Pasay City on September 27, 2026!

Sabor Latino returns to Makati on November 14 to 15 with Latin American food, products, music, dance, and cultural experiences at Paseo de Roxas.

Okada Manila, the Philippines’ premier Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star integrated resort, announced that it will be collaborating with Disney Philippines

Shin Mikana has expanded to Davao City, bringing its selection of Japanese seasonings, frozen and refrigerated foods, and commercial-sized ingredients to customers and food businesses in Mindanao.

Starbucks at The Shoppes at McKinley West in Taguig features the Philippines’ first pet-friendly Starbucks store, with a dedicated Pet Zone where guests can enjoy coffee with their cats and dogs.

Create your own paper flower arrangement at the Paper Flower Bar at BGC Art Mart this September 19 to 20 and 26 to 27, 2026, for Php 200 per person.

Shopping takes on a more meaningful spin as Mommy Mundo’s MAMAMARKET returns, this time making its way to Park Triangle Mall in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) from September 18 to 20, 2026.

International Bazaar 2026 marks the International Bazaar Foundation’s 60th anniversary on November 29 at SMX Convention Center Aura, with food, specialty products, gifts, and finds from around the world.

BrickCon.PH 2026 comes to Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati on September 19–20 with Kids’ Cosplay, a Build Competition, Speed Builds, Zoo Collab, Brick Hunt, Brick Bingo, LEGO displays, and more.

Marcelo: The Man Behind the Hero at Ayala Museum explores Marcelo H. Del Pilar through family, sacrifice, and personal letters, with the exhibition curated by his 17-year-old descendant Pax Pineda.

Language lovers and curious travelers can experience a slice of Europe right in Makati as Speak Dating 2026 makes its first appearance in the Philippines on September 19, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Concourse, Level 2, One Ayala, Makati City.

Ramen Kuroda Express is a concept designed specifically for commuters who want a hot bowl of ramen without a long wait.

This September, Toyota Motor Philippines is bringing different Tamaraw variants and conversions to four events in Metro Manila and Cebu, giving visitors a closer look at just how flexible the vehicle can be.

BGC Art Mart returns to Alveo Central Plaza at BGC Arts Center on September 19–20 and 26–27, 2026, providing a platform for local artists, artisans, and crafters to showcase their original creations.

MNL Fashion Week 2026 brings four days of runway shows to SMX Convention Center Aura from September 3 to 6, showcasing the latest collections and creative perspectives of Filipino designers and fashion labels.

Japanese autumn arrives in Bonifacio Global City as MITSUKOSHI BGC presents Aki Festival 2026 from September 2 to November 1, 2026.

Coffee lovers, brewers, and curious newcomers can look forward to three days of discovery as Coffee Plz 2026 returns to Ayala Malls Circuit in Makati City from September 4 to 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

At Mamou Prime, steak takes center stage with the Devesa Argentinian Steak Line, a premium selection not commonly found on restaurant menus.

Red Rhino gives Mandaluyong diners a place where a night out does not have to end after dinner.

For diners searching for a casual place to unwind in Mandaluyong, Blackwood Bar and Grill brings together hearty food, refreshing drinks, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.

Daykey Donut Philippines opens its first branch at Uptown Mall BGC, serving freshly made Japanese Nama Donuts, filled donuts, and premium donut creations in limited daily batches.

Shopping, good food, music, and exciting local finds are taking over Rizal Row once again as The Modern Market returns to Estancia at Capitol Commons from August 21 to 23, 2026.

The many possibilities of one of the Philippines’ most important crops will take center stage as the DTI-Bagong Pilipinas COCONUT Philippines Trade Fair (CTF) returns for its third edition from August 26 to 30, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

HER Market’s All Filipino Fair is coming to S Maison from August 21 to 31, 2026, featuring Filipino food, fashion, crafts, accessories, handmade products, coffee, matcha, and other local finds with free admission.

Filipino fashion, craftsmanship, and a message of hope came together at Wear for Peace, a special fashion presentation held on August 15, 2026, at Salon de Ning, The Peninsula Manila.

La Chinesca is a popular Mexican restaurant that stands out for its fresh, creative tacos, taco trays, and vegan-friendly options.

Fans of Japanese anime and music-themed romance can step into the world of GIVEN (ギヴン) as the series takes over Moshi Gran Cafe at One Ayala in Makati City for its first-ever Boys’ Love (BL) themed pop-up collaboration in the Philippines!

The University of the Philippines will commemorate the 70th Anniversary of Philippines–Japan Diplomatic Relations with Noh performances on December 6, 7, and 9, 2026, featuring Ranshō: Paglusong sa Sigwa and Shakkyo.

Omberry Açaí at 9th Avenue, Bonifacio High Street, BGC serves Brazilian açaí through refreshing bowls, soft serve, and smoothies made with 100% real açaí. The brand also offers OM The Go!, a mobile açaí cart for corporate events, private parties, and pop-ups.

The Purple & Green Market is heading to several Metro Manila locations this August an September 2026, bringing together ube, matcha, food, handmade finds, local creatives, and independent brands.

MaArte at The Pen returns to The Peninsula Manila from August 13 to 16, 2026, featuring Filipino fashion, jewelry, art, home décor, gourmet finds, and other locally crafted products as part of the hotel’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

The BWB Makati introduces a luxury Japanese yakiniku experience built on two main principles: authentic food quality and thoughtful hospitality.

Celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival 2026 with mooncake collections from hotels and restaurants around Metro Manila, including Grand Hyatt Manila, Lung Hin, The Empress Dining Palace, Edsa Shangri-La, and China Blue by Jereme Leung.

Filipino creativity, craftsmanship, and homegrown businesses take center stage at House of Local by The Bazaar.

French children’s fashion boutique Kids Around has arrived in the Philippines, opening its first local concept store at Greenbelt 5 on August 11, 2026.

A new destination for Japanese beauty care has arrived in Metro Manila!

Several restaurants and stores have closed or announced their closure at Alabang Town Center as the mall undergoes a major redevelopment. Confirmed closures include Popeyes, Wee Nam Kee, Cold Stone Creamery, and American Eagle, while other tenants remain open during the ongoing transformation.

The journey to the world stage begins in Mandaluyong as the first-ever Origami Cup Philippines 2026 brings together brewers from across the country for a landmark coffee competition on September 6, 2026, at Greenfield District Central Park.

Travel enthusiasts can begin preparing for their next getaway as the Travel Sale Fair returns from October 23 to 25, 2026, at the SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City.

Souk Mega Pop-Up returns to Glorietta Palm Drive Activity Center from August 14 to 16, 2026, featuring more than 60 local brands, shopping, coffee, matcha, food vendors, and live DJ performances with free admission.

Manila Matcha Fest returns to SM Mall of Asia from August 7 to 16, 2026, featuring 24 matcha brands in a 10-day celebration of matcha drinks, desserts, and specialty products.

SM Megamall is welcoming new restaurants and food brands in 2026, including Mensho Tokyo, Hatoya Matcha, Cheung Hing Kee, Standard Bread, BHC Chicken, Hikiniku To Come, Läderach, Yappari Steak, and Yakiniku King.

Food, music, and fresh discoveries come together at the first-ever ZEEN & Tasted Food Festival!

The Kobe Port and Harbor Bureau will hold the Port of Kobe Seminar in Manila on August 25, 2026, at Diamond Hotel Philippines in Manila.

The Manila International Book Fair returns to SMX Convention Center Manila from September 9 to 13, 2026, featuring local and international publishers, author meet-and-greets, panel discussions, workshops, and exclusive book releases.

Sushi Matsuri, organized by Minnano Supermarket, takes place at MITSUKOSHI FRESH, MITSUKOSHI BGC from July 30 to August 26, 2026, featuring a wide selection of freshly prepared sushi for a limited time.

Craving burgers? Consider this your green light to head to Greenlight Burgers by Alvin Cailan, where freshly ground beef, crispy smashed edges, house-made sauces, and fresh-baked buns come together in every bite.

In the lively streets of Poblacion, Makati, Scratch Smash Burgers has become a go-to stop for diners looking for a hearty, flavor-packed burger that feels both familiar and exciting.

Jack in the Donuts Philippines is set to celebrate its grand opening on July 24, 2026, at Level 2 of Glorietta 4

Celebrate MITSUKOSHI BGC’s 3rd Anniversary and the 70th Anniversary of Japan–Philippines Friendship at Ceramic Wishes: A Tanabata Pottery Experience on August 30, 2026, featuring pottery workshops, glass decal art, and hands-on pottery wheel activities for all ages.

Travelers can start planning their next memorable escape as Travelhood Luxe 2026 returns to Makati on August 15 and 16, 2026, at The Fifth at Rockwell, Power Plant Mall.

In commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of Philippines–Japan Friendship, the Filipinas Heritage Library (FHL) presents Between Two Worlds: A Philippine Diary, 80 Years Ago—by Shinichi Komatsu, a free exhibition running from July 2 to August 16, 2026, at the Ayala Museum 2F Lobby.

Mega Coffee Fest takes over SM Megamall from July 21–27, 2026, bringing together local cafés, coffee roasters, bakeries, live vinyl sets, and interactive experiences at the Ground Level of Mega Fashion Hall.

Dr.stretch opens its first Philippine branch at One Ayala in Makati on July 28, introducing Japan’s Core Balance Stretch technique focused on improving flexibility, mobility, and posture.

Eve Massage brings the comfort of a professional massage experience straight to one’s home, making wellness more convenient and accessible across Metro Manila.

Coffee enthusiasts, brewers, farmers, café owners, and industry professionals are set to gather once again as KapeCon 2026 takes over Paseo de Roxas in Makati City from October 10 to 11, 2026!

WeeART takes over Makati Central Square on July 25–26, 2026 with an art market, open exhibition, live art sessions, and artist talks organized by Puesto and weewilldoodle.

Baby Company’s biggest and grandest Grand Baby Fair is set to take over Halls 3 and 4 of SMX Manila at the MOA Complex from July 16 to 19, 2026.

MITSUKOSHI FRESH brings back its annual Tuna Cutting Show on July 18, 2026 at MITSUKOSHI BGC as part of its 3rd anniversary celebration.

Mono Beef Bar at The Grid Food Market in Makati serves Japanese-inspired beef bowls by Chef Pat Go, featuring customizable beef cuts, sauces, and Mono Sets complete with rice, onsen egg, miso soup, and side dishes.

Filipino craftsmanship takes center stage once again as ArteFino celebrates its milestone 10th year with “ArteFino Isang Dekada: Heritage in Motion,” happening from July 30 to August 2, 2026 at The Fifth at Rockwell and Power Plant Mall.

Manila Sneaker Expo returns with a bigger and broader identity as Urban Affair 2026, a one-day event dedicated to style, culture, and collecting.

This year, the country’s premier independent film festival returns with a longer run, from August 6 to 18, 2026 inviting audiences to embark on a journey of introspection through films that illuminate the many facets of the human condition. 

Get ready, Trainers! An exciting Pokémon adventure is about to begin in the Philippines!

Japanese food is always a good idea—and Watami’s new menu proves that Everyday Japanese can feel even more indulgent, with reimagined classics, playful presentations, and dishes worth savoring.

Makati’s Japanese dining scene welcomes a new name from Kyoto, Japan, with the opening of Takumi Japanese Restaurant, one of the newest Japanese restaurants in the city!

Merienda by Pan de Manila has opened its first Makati branch in Salcedo Village, serving Filipino comfort food and merienda favorites.

Momojia in Makati introduces authentic Rougamo, the famous Shaanxi street food often called the “Chinese hamburger,” together with Biang Biang noodles and other Chinese specialties.

Astoria-ACES Food Journey in BGC brings together four dining concepts under one roof, offering Filipino, Japanese, Mediterranean, and café favorites alongside affordable rice bowls and specialty drinks.

Bonifacio Global City’s (BGC) South & East Side is serving up something new for every kind of craving! Discover the newest dining destinations to check out with Philippine Primer!

A Lounge at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay is a 24-hour airport lounge offering walk-in access, dining, premium beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable facilities, with another branch also available at NAIA Terminal 1.

Japan will raise visa fees for foreign nationals fivefold starting July 1, 2026.

Mandarin Oriental is set to make its much-awaited return to Makati with Mandarin Oriental Makati, Manila, a new luxury hotel rising within Ayala Triangle Gardens

The North Face Philippines has opened a new store on the Ground Floor of MITSUKOSHI BGC, offering performance apparel, footwear, bags, and outdoor gear for explorers and active lifestyles.

TORA by Tiger is opening soon in BGC, bringing modern Japanese cuisine influenced by global flavors and traditional Japanese techniques.

Flour Pot Bistro & Bakery brings a charming café-bakery experience to Bonifacio Global City, blending classic and contemporary flavors with a signature rustic yet elegant approach.

Japanese cuisine continues to find new expressions in Manila as Makati Shangri-La, Manila introduces one of its newest culinary destinations: SHIDŌ, a Japanese restaurant inspired by the spirit of Japan in Motion.

MITSUKOSHI BGC marks its 3rd anniversary with a Tanabata-inspired celebration from July to August 2026, featuring Japanese summer activities, yukata experiences, workshops, and more.

Anime & Cosplay Expo 2026: Radiant Ruby is happening on July 18 to 19, 2026 at SMX Convention Center Manila in Pasay City, featuring cosplay competitions, meet-and-greets, karaoke, auctions, and Cosplay Mania 2026 announcements.

The Travel Madness Expo 2026 is set to return from July 10 to 12, 2026, at Halls 1 to 4 of the SMX Convention Center Manila.

BENCH/ will present Threads of Dreams: Katazome Japanese Fashion and Traditional Dyeing on June 28, 2026 at The Foyer, Metropolitan Museum of Manila.