There was no mistaking the lively atmosphere inside the Summit Media office as members of the press gathered for Spot.ph’s exclusive Media Day with its June Weekender cover star, Ninong Ry. Known for turning everyday cooking into entertaining content, the internet personality brought the same infectious energy from the screen to the room, making the afternoon feel less like a formal press conference and more like a conversation among fellow food lovers.
At the heart of the event was the introduction of Hindi Pa Rin Ito Cookbook ni Ninong Ry, the much-anticipated follow-up to his first cookbook. Displayed prominently around the venue, the new release immediately caught the attention of guests with its cheeky title and colorful design—a fitting reflection of the creator’s fun-loving personality. As attendees flipped through its pages, they discovered recipes that balanced familiar Filipino flavors with the unexpected twists that have become synonymous with Ninong Ry’s cooking style.
Taking the stage, Ninong Ry spoke candidly about the inspiration behind the new cookbook and how it mirrors his growth as both a chef and a content creator. He shared that while his videos are often fast-paced and spontaneous, translating his recipes into print required a different level of thought and precision. Every recipe was carefully written to ensure readers could confidently recreate the dishes in their own kitchens while still feeling the relaxed, “walang arte” approach that defines his brand.
@lionheartv The reason Why @Ninong Ry released his own book was to realize a childhood dream. #MediaDayWithNinongRy #SpotWeekenderJun2026 #LionHearTv #RawrNation @spot.ph ♬ original sound – LIONHEARTV
The conversation quickly expanded beyond the cookbook. Reporters were eager to hear about his journey from uploading cooking videos online to becoming one of the country’s most recognizable food personalities. Between thoughtful reflections and humorous anecdotes, Ninong Ry recalled memorable moments from his career, the lessons he learned while building an online community, and the importance of staying authentic despite his growing popularity.
His effortless humor kept the room engaged throughout the session. Nearly every answer was met with laughter, yet beneath the jokes was a genuine passion for making cooking approachable. Whether discussing recipe testing, content creation, or the evolving Filipino food scene, he consistently emphasized that good cooking isn’t about perfection—it’s about enjoying the process and sharing meals with the people who matter.
As the formal interview concluded, the energy remained high as media guests gathered for one-on-one conversations and photo opportunities. Many took the chance to browse Hindi Pa Rin Ito Cookbook ni Ninong Ry more closely, discovering recipes accompanied by practical tips, witty commentary, and personal stories that made the book feel less like a traditional cookbook and more like spending time in Ninong Ry’s own kitchen.
The event also celebrated his latest milestone as Spot.ph’s June Weekender cover star, recognizing his influence not only in digital entertainment but also in shaping how Filipinos engage with food online. Through his videos, his growing body of published work, and his unmistakable personality, Ninong Ry continues to inspire home cooks to experiment, embrace local flavors, and find joy in every meal they prepare.
By the end of the afternoon, guests left with more than a signed copy of the cookbook. They walked away with a deeper appreciation for the creator behind the recipes—a storyteller whose success has been built on authenticity, humor, and an unwavering belief that great food should always be simple, satisfying, and shared with others. (with reports from Aldrine Benitez)
