Tony returns to the Philippines by way of Manila, its crowded capital city. Home to 12 to 15 million inhabitants, Manila is hot, tropical, smoggy, fascinating, and especially chaotic in the lead up to Christmas. Filipinos take the holiday seriously, and the 100 days before Christmas are like one long party. First, we learn that the Philippines are the world’s leading exporter of cover bands. These gifted musicians are sent all over the world to play renditions of Western pop songs in hotel lobbies, in bars and on cruise ships. There are thousands of musicians covering the same astonishing spectrum of songs, with one ultimate goal - to make it big abroad. Unfortunately, statistically, only a few of these bands will make a living outside of Philippines. But where to go to eat? Tony heads to get a fast food fix like none other. With over 900 locations in the Philippines, the Jollibee restaurant chain is wildly successful. The franchise started with five branches in 1978 and has grown to a strong network of a total of 801 stores in the country, and 96 stores internationally. Jollibee has branches all over the world, and for Filipinos living outside the country it has become a comforting reminder of home. Jollibee serves burgers, fries, spaghetti and fried chicken - American fast food, with a Filipino twist. Tony heads to Jollibee and orders local favorites Jolly Spaghetti and Chicken Joy. Exuberant mascot dance numbers and strange food pairings ensue.
Anthony Bourdain was broadcast on SBS ONE at Saturday 22 February 2020, 02:00. This episode was initially placed on Thursday 28 November 2019.