Coinciding with the celebration of Philippine Independence Day on June 12 is National Ube Day. A movement popularized by Filipino-American food bloggers and bakeries in the mid-2010s. Today, the vibrant purple yam has achieved global fame. With culinary experts touting ube as “the next matcha.”
As a steadfast supporter of the country’s rich culinary arts heritage, the Michelin-Guide-listed Manila Marriott Hotel is turning up this season. By transforming the entire month of June into a celebration dedicated to painting the town ube.

A Sweet Collaboration Born of Heritage
To kick off the festivities, Manila Marriott Hotel’s Marriott Café Bakery is permanently adding a new masterpiece to its premium cake selection. The “Kasen” Burnt Basque Ube Cheesecake.
This decadent creation is named after Kasen Abelgas, a fourteen-year-old content creator and rising culinary talent. Abelgas focuses on mastering his craft through specialized courses while passionately promoting local flavors through his YouTube channel, “Kasen Eats.”
To bring this promising dessert to life, Abelgas collaborated with Manila Marriott’s highly acclaimed Executive Pastry Chef, Felinio Afable. Under the expert tutelage of Director of Culinary Chef Meik Brammer.
Ultimately, the intention behind the initiative is to honor the teenager for his noble advocacy at such a young age. The hotel hopes this humble gesture will inspire more Filipinos to raise the national flag whenever given the opportunity. Further elevating Filipino cuisine on the global stage.
A Month-Long Purple Takeover
In addition to the bakery’s permanent new installment, Marriott Café—the hotel’s award-winning, all-day dining restaurant—will feature a comprehensive ube takeover. Throughout the month of June, the signature purple flavor will dominate the dessert buffet spread. Offering guests a wide variety of innovative forms and ways to enjoy the wonderful tuber during breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For more information about Manila Marriott Hotel at Newport World Resorts, please call (632) 8988 9999 or visit www.manilamarriott.com. To stay updated on their latest seasonal offers, follow @manilamarriott on Facebook and Instagram.
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