The first-ever National Hopia Day, celebrated from July 19 to 21, 2024, at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall, marked a significant milestone in honoring the rich Filipino-Chinese heritage that hopia represents. Organized by Eng Bee Tin, the event was not just a tribute to this beloved pastry but also a celebration of the enduring cultural ties between the Filipino and Chinese communities in the Philippines.
This three-day extravaganza drew thousands of hopia enthusiasts and families who were treated to a range of activities, including games, special discounts, and free tastings of newly introduced flavors like Kapeng Barako, Sisig, and Benguet Strawberry. The highlight of the event was the ceremonial breaking of a giant ube hopia, symbolizing the unity and shared history embodied by this simple yet beloved treat.
Eng Bee Tin, a brand synonymous with hopia for over a century, used this occasion to reflect on its 112-year legacy. Gerik Chua, one of the event organizers, shared the historical journey of hopia from its origins in the early 1900s, brought over by Chinese immigrants, to its current status as a staple in Filipino households. Today, hopia’s flavors and varieties have expanded, yet it remains a symbol of nostalgia and comfort for many Filipinos.
The event also featured an augmented reality experience that delighted attendees with a giant virtual hopia “wandering” around the Mall of Asia, showcasing the innovative spirit that continues to drive Eng Bee Tin’s success.
National Hopia Day was not just a celebration of a pastry but a celebration of cultural fusion, family traditions, and the joy of simple pleasures. With its success, National Hopia Day is set to become an annual celebration, promising more excitement and even more flavors to explore in the years to come.