A familiar Filipino table, a New Zealand leader—and a reminder that belonging grows through participation and contribution.
Sometimes, a simple meal can say more than a formal speech.
During his official visit to the Philippines in April 2024, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon made Jollibee EDSA Buendia his first restaurant stop in Manila.
Accompanied by New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell and Paulo Garcia—New Zealand’s first Member of Parliament of Filipino descent—the Prime Minister sampled some unmistakably Filipino favourites: Chickenjoy, Jolly Spaghetti, Champ Burger, Peach Mango Pie and Jollibee Chicken Nuggets.
There were photographs, conversations with customers and crew, and even a warm welcome from the famous red-and-yellow bee.
For Filipinos, however, Jollibee is rarely “just fast food.”
It is the taste of childhood birthdays, family celebrations, after-school treats and balikbayan homecomings. For Filipinos living overseas, seeing that familiar smiling bee can bring back memories of home before the first bite is even taken.
That is why this light-hearted moment resonated.
It was not important because a political leader ate fried chicken and spaghetti. It mattered because something deeply familiar to Filipinos was recognised and enjoyed in a public moment involving New Zealand.
For our growing Filipino community in Aotearoa, recognition carries meaning.
But belonging cannot stop at being noticed.
Filipinos across New Zealand are already helping care for patients, teach children, build businesses, support families, strengthen churches and community groups, and keep essential workplaces moving. We participate not only in cultural celebrations but in the everyday life of the country we now call home.
Our food may introduce us, but our contribution tells the fuller story.
Belonging grows when we show up, participate and take responsibility for the communities around us. It grows when we understand how New Zealand works, join local conversations, volunteer, vote when eligible, support our neighbours and confidently share the best of Filipino culture.
The Jollibee visit offered a cheerful image of connection between the Philippines and New Zealand. Yet the more important story continues far beyond that restaurant.
It is being written every day by Filipinos who bring their skills, faith, humour, hospitality, resilience and hard work into Kiwi life.
A plate of Chickenjoy may create a moment of familiarity.
Participation creates belonging.
Contribution builds a shared future.
Editorial note: This community-interest article refers to Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s documented visit to Jollibee in Manila on 18 April 2024. It is not a political endorsement of any person, party or policy.
The visit details are documented by the Jollibee Group. The article deliberately avoids discussing policies, parties or electoral issues.
