Heartwarming scenes of togetherness filled several McDonald’s Party Rooms recently as McDonald’s Philippines hosted its first “Grand Reunion at McDo.” Held last December 8 and 12, the event was the quick service restaurant’s (QSR) way of bringing families and friends together, especially the unsung heroes who make holiday celebrations possible.
“At McDonald’s, we value every person who works tirelessly behind the scenes and this Christmas season, we wanted to give them the chance to take a break and celebrate with people who matter most to them,” said Ada Lazaro, Chief Marketing Officer at McDonald's Philippines.
Among those who joined the “Grand Reunion at McDo" on December 12 were delivery riders who work tirelessly during the holiday rush, often spending long hours on the road to ensure that meals reach customers.
They were treated to a communal feast featuring McDonald’s limited-time offers, Honey Butter Chicken McDo and White Choco Cereal McFlurry. Staying true to the spirit of the event, the meal came with a shared “shake, tear, and sprinkle” ritual using Garlic Parmesan and Snow Cheese powder to pour onto the Honey Butter Chicken McDo. It was an interactive activity that added fun and flavor to the intimate yet meaningful celebration.
Edwin, Kevin, and Macoy were among the riders who celebrated with their loved ones during the Grand Reunion on December 12 -- a day specially dedicated to McDonald’s delivery partners and their families.
“And pinaka-memorable po sakin ay ang mga games kung saan po ako sumali, at yung mga food na sobrang na-enjoy at nabusog po kami (The most memorable for me were the games that I joined, and the food that we truly enjoyed and felt full),” said Edwin, a McDonald’s Delivery Rider who came to the Grand Reunion with his four daughters.
Kevin, who attended the Grand Reunion with his four friends, shared that he joined the Grand Reunion “para maranasan ang sama-samang pagdiriwang kasama ang mga mahal sa buhay (to experience celebrating with my loved ones).”
“Sobrang saya at napawi ang mga problemang iniisip sa buhay (I was so happy, and the problems we were worrying about in life seemed to fade away),” he said.
Macoy, meanwhile, joined the celebration with his wife and child.
“Masaya po lalo na ‘yung anak ko kasi gusto niya yung prize. Since nanalo ako, nakuha ko ‘yung prize na gusto niya (We were really happy, especially my daughter since I won the prize that she really wanted), he said.
Customers Share Their Own Reunion Stories
In the weeks leading up to the event, the QSR also invited customers to share why they long to reunite with loved ones, what kept them apart, and what makes their bond worth celebrating in McDonald’s Philippines’ Facebook page.
Hundreds of heartfelt stories poured in, and those that best embodied the spirit of togetherness won their sender and group seats at the “Grand Reunion at McDo” on December 8.
Vanessa was among those whose story was chosen by McDonald’s. She came with her senior parents, siblings, husband, two children, nephews, aunt, and uncle.
“Sa amin bihira na po talaga kami magkita-kita dahil sa trabaho. ‘Yung iba po sa amin, hindi din nakaka-experience ng party na ganito (It has become very seldom for us to see each other because of work. Some of us have also not experienced parties like this),” she said.
McDonald’s accommodated groups of up to 10 members, with two groups per Party Room. A dedicated McDo Happiness Host made the occasion more memorable, guiding each group through fun activities that included games and toasts.
Clarissa was another customer who shared a story and was chosen to join the Grand Reunion with her friends.
“It all started when we were in elementary school. We were neighbors and cousins at the same time. We’re 12, the two are already in the US and Canada. Nene pa kami yung time na yun, nagdalaga, nag-asawa, nagkaroon na ng priorities in life, so this is the chance na pwede naming uli, mag-reunion kami (We were still kids back then. We grew up, got married, and had different priorities in life, so this is our chance to come together again for a reunion,” she said.
The “Grand Reunion at McDo” drew smiles, warm embraces, and stories of reconnection among the attendees, reminding everyone of how powerful a simple gathering can be. It also highlighted the Filipino values of pagsama-sama, pagsalo-salo, and gratitude during one of the most important times of the year.
“There are many Filipinos who face challenges that keep them away from their family and friends because of financial constraints, distance, or work during the holidays. The ‘Grand Reunion at McDo’ is our way of offering them a lighthearted yet meaningful pause over food made special during this busy season,” Lazaro said.
For more information about McDonald’s Philippines, visit www.mcdonalds.com.ph, McDo.ph on Meta, @mcdo_ph on Instagram, and @McDo_PH on X.
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