When J-Hope, a member of the global K-pop sensation BTS, returned to the Philippines after an eight-year hiatus, it wasn’t just his electrifying performance at the “J-Hope On The Stage” concert in Manila that captured attention. Last weekend, the artist’s heartfelt embrace of Filipino cuisine during a candid Weverse live stream sent social media into a frenzy, shining a spotlight on local flavors and sparking a wave of excitement among fans and food lovers alike.

A Taste of the Philippines

During his stay in Manila, J-Hope dived into a feast of Filipino classics at Manam, a popular restaurant known for its blend of traditional and modern takes on local dishes. The spread included crispy pata (deep-fried pork knuckle), sinigang na baboy sa sampaloc (a tangy tamarind-based pork soup), crispy sisig (a sizzling mix of pork parts), and garlic rice. For dessert, he savored halo-halo, a beloved Filipino treat made of shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and leche flan. With a wide smile, he declared “This is my favorite dessert! Halo-halo!” during the live stream, instantly endearing himself further to his Filipino fans, known as Filo-Army.

Manam, thrilled by the shout-out, responded on Instagram Stories with a repost of J-Hope’s video and a warm message. “Super amazing Hope on the Stage Manila concert this weekend! Gamsahamnida [Thank you] J-Hope!! Please rest, eat well, and enjoy some Filipino fare, our beloved Jhopeee. Mahal ka namin, walang uuwi [We love you, no going home]. Saranghae! [I love you!]” they wrote, reflecting the hospitality and affection that define Filipino culture.

The K-pop star’s culinary adventure quickly became a trending topic online, with fans flooding social media platforms to share their reactions. One user posted “I actually love Manam, it was one of my comfort foods when I was staying in Ortigas. Now I will also remember J-Hope every time I eat their food.” Others humorously tied their cravings to the timing of Holy Week, a significant religious observance in the predominantly Catholic Philippines, with one user joking “I’m going to try the J-Hope package in Manam tomorrow. I’ll cancel Holy Week, is that okay?? He ordered all pork haha.”

The mention of a “J-Hope package” suggests that fans are already envisioning themed meals inspired by his order, a testament to the influence K-pop idols wield over consumer trends. This online buzz underscores how cultural exchanges, even through something as simple as a shared meal, can resonate deeply in the digital age, bridging continents and communities.

Fast Food and Fan Moments

Beyond Manam, J-Hope also made a stop at Jollibee, the iconic Filipino fast-food chain beloved for its fried chicken and sweet-style spaghetti. During a special farewell segment at his Manila concert, he shared this experience with his fans, further cementing his connection to the local culture. For many Filo-Army members, seeing their idol enjoy Jollibee—a staple of Filipino childhoods and family gatherings—was a moment of shared pride and nostalgia.

This isn’t J-Hope’s first encounter with the Philippines; his last visit was in 2017 during BTS’ Wings Tour. However, this solo return allowed for a more personal engagement with the country’s culture, evident in his choice to highlight local cuisine both on and off stage. His actions reflect a growing trend among international artists who use food as a way to connect with fans on a more intimate level, turning a concert tour into a cultural dialogue.

A Small Win for Cultural Exchange

As the echoes of J-Hope’s Manila concert fade, the lingering taste of crispy pata and halo-halo remains a sweet reminder of the power of shared experiences. For Filipino fans, his genuine appreciation of their cuisine is more than just a celebrity endorsement—it’s a small but meaningful acknowledgment of their identity on a global stage. Whether it’s a quick bite at Jollibee or a full meal at Manam, these moments of connection continue to flavor the bond between K-pop and the Philippines.