Fueling the global stage: Filipino flavors invade ROUND Festival
It is not uncommon to see non-Filipino diners lining up for ‘chicken inasal’ and other local dishes — proof that Filipino flavors resonate globally.

PARTICIPANTS enjoy Mang Inasal Round Festival booths.
PHOTOGRAPHs BY Dani Mari Arnaiz for DAILY TRIBUNE
The ROUND Festival continues to redefine what a music festival can be, going beyond sound and spectacle to become a living platform for cultural exchange. As part of the broader ROUND (ASEAN-Korea Music Festival), it gathers artists from Southeast Asia and South Korea, blending diverse genres and identities into one shared global stage. From pop and indie to hip-hop and traditional fusion, ROUND thrives on collaboration, giving both emerging and established performers the opportunity to connect with audiences far beyond their borders.
A global stage for Filipino talent
In the Philippines, ROUND 2026 takes on even deeper meaning. It becomes not just a celebration of music, but of Filipino pride, where local talent stands alongside international acts, showcasing the country’s vibrant creative identity. With global streaming and international attention, the festival amplifies Southeast Asian voices, turning every performance into a cultural statement.
Filipino flavor on the global scene
Through its signature “Ihaw-Sarap, Unli-Saya” offerings, Mang Inasal adds a distinct Filipino touch to the festival experience. Alongside its well-loved grilled favorites, its halo-halo offering brings a refreshing take on the classic dessert — perfectly suited to the high-energy atmosphere of ROUND.
As festivalgoers move through the ROUND Village, the experience is enhanced not only by music but also by the cooling, colorful layers of halo-halo. Known for its mix of textures and flavors, the dessert offers a sweet escape from the heat and intensity of the crowd. It becomes more than just food; it is a moment of pause and refreshment amid a vibrant celebration.

SUMMER must-have: Mang Inasal’s Extra Creamy Halo-Halo.
Food also becomes part of the festival’s social fabric. Pre-concert excitement extends beyond the lineup to shared meals and familiar flavors. During the event, dining spaces turn into gathering points where conversations spark, friendships form and international guests get introduced to Filipino cuisine.
More than just a food partner, Mang Inasal becomes part of the storytelling of ROUND Festival. Its presence underscores the idea that Filipino cuisine deserves a place on the global stage alongside music, art and performance. Each serving reflects warmth, hospitality and the vibrancy of Filipino culture.
By being part of the festival experience, it helps create a multi-sensory celebration. Music fills the air, visuals captivate the senses and flavors complete the journey — turning every moment into something immersive and distinctly Filipino. In this space, taste becomes memory, and shared meals become expressions of identity and connection.
