Lion dances, drums, booths, food, celebrities, and, of course, hopia galore delighted the many attendees of the first National Hopia Day, held on July 19 at the Mall of Asia Music Hall.

The Chua family, led by patriarch Gerry, welcomed all the guests, including former Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, former beauty queen Cory Quirino, and actress Diana Zubiri and her family, to an afternoon of good food, games, and special performances.

The event began with a symbolic lion dance and a lively drum performance by members of the volunteer firefighters, setting the tone for a fun-filled afternoon.

Gerry Chua then gave a speech, recalling the humble beginnings of Eng Bee Tin and how the ube hopia variant was instrumental in making the bakery famous. He shared that when he concocted the ube hopia, he was debt-ridden but not hopeless. He acknowledged the significant help of Cory Quirino, whose feature on the product helped boost its popularity, providing the much-needed shot in the arm for Eng Bee Tin.

Host-actor Isko Moreno praised the qualities of the Chua family and hailed them for organizing the National Hopia Day, promising that the next event would take place in the heart of Manila, where Eng Bee Tin is located.

The National Hopia Day was the brainchild of the Chua children Gerald Royce, Gerik, and Geraldyn. Noting that there are many celebrations dedicated to delicacies but not one for the beloved hopia, the Chuas resolved to hold a family-centered event every July to celebrate the delicious merienda staple. The Chua children are determined not only to continue but also to add to the proud tradition of providing delicious Eng Bee Tin products.

Started in 1912, Eng Bee Tin bakery is a ubiquitous Binondo landmark and a major stopover for visitors to Manila.