When Andrew Zimmern predicted in 2012 that Filipino talent would soon command global attention, it sounded like a bold declaration. The American chef and James Beard awardee believed that chefs from the Philippines would find their place on the world stage within just a few years. The late Anthony Bourdain echoed this sentiment in a 2016 interview, noting his excitement at seeing Filipino chefs and their talent being increasingly embraced beyond the Pinoy community. Over a decade later, those statements have been fulfilled, with the MICHELIN Guide recognizing 108 local restaurants in its inaugural Philippine edition—an affirmation of the country’s growing presence in the global culinary scene.
Today, Filipino chefs are redefining what it means to cook on an international stage. They bring their training, creativity, and unique perspective to kitchens that blend diverse Asian and global influences. As the Philippines earns its rightful place in the MICHELIN spotlight, UnionBank is proud to celebrate this milestone through the Star Course Series. Select principal UnionBank Visa Credit Cardholders now have the chance to be part of an exclusive, by-invitation-only dining experience curated by chefs from MICHELIN Starred restaurants—a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of culinary excellence and artistry.
“The MICHELIN Guide’s arrival in the Philippines is more than a culinary milestone—it’s a moment of national pride. UnionBank is honored to celebrate this historic achievement by giving our cardholders exclusive access to experiences that showcase Filipino talent on the global stage,” says Mukul Sukhani, Head of Cards and Loans in UnionBank.
For the opening salvo, UnionBank and Visa are giving Credit Cardholders the opportunity to take part in an exclusive culinary experience at one of the recently MICHELIN-recognized restaurants. On April 7, 2026, Celera—a MICHELIN Starred restaurant known for its bold pan-Asian innovations—will host a special evening led by Filipino chefs Nicco Santos and Quenee Vilar of Celera, alongside Chef Zor Tan of Born, Singapore’s One MICHELIN Star restaurant celebrated for its contemporary cuisine inspired by the “Circle of Life” philosophy. Together, they will present a one-night-only menu that brings together fearless flavors, thoughtful storytelling, and a shared vision of modern Asian dining—creative, expressive, and globally resonant.
To secure a seat at the first Star Course Series dinner and enjoy world-class dining, UnionBank Credit Cardholders can earn raffle entries through qualified dining and shopping purchases made using their UnionBank Visa Credit Card. To qualify, cardholders must register via UnionBank TreatsHub to start earning entries. This exclusive offer runs from December 18, 2025 to February 14, 2026.
The top three UnionBank Credit Cardholders in Dining spend and the top three in Shopping spend will automatically receive reserved seats for two. To learn more about the offer, visit unionbankph.com/MICHELIN.
From everyday purchases to extraordinary experiences, every spend brings cardholders closer to unlocking an unforgettable evening where MICHELIN Starred mastery, inspired collaborations, and exclusive access come together—made possible only with UnionBank Credit Cards.
