For years, the question “Birthday ko?” has been a running joke among Filipinos, a playful nod to the kind of star power that would make an entire nation celebrate. Yesterday, however, Brand Ambassador Anne Curtis wasn’t asking about her own birthday (that’s still in February!). She was the central figure in a celebration truly worth flying home for: the first anniversary of her Australian brand partner, Anko Philippines.
The festivities kicked off this past Friday, November 7, 2025, at the Palm Drive Activity Center in Ayala Malls Glorietta 2, transforming the space into a vibrant hub of birthday and holiday cheer. The day-long celebration underscored Anko’s growing connection with the community. Shoppers who signed up for the Anko Club were treated to a fun-filled day that included festive photo spots, interactive gifting zones, and a special bonding moment with Anne.
The brand’s presence has rapidly expanded in just one year, growing from a single store to four thriving locations in Glorietta, TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, and Ayala Malls Manila Bay. A fifth branch is also soon to open at Ayala Malls Feliz.
“It’s been such an exciting and fulfilling first year,” shared Rachel Turner, country manager of Anko Philippines. “We launched Anko with the goal of offering quality, design, and affordability all in one place, and the response from Filipino shoppers has been incredible, which inspired us to move forward.”
Anko has stayed true to its mission to make everyday living brighter with well-designed, affordable products across key categories like home, kitchen, toys, and beauty. The brand keeps its offerings fresh, ensuring new items arrive every week and recently expanded into the small appliances category. And honestly, this isn’t just some PR fluff. I’ve experienced it myself. The store is a bit of a trap in the best way possible. You walk in for one thing and end up spending an hour roaming around, leaving with bags full of stuff you didn’t know you needed.
The birthday bash wasn't confined to Glorietta. The anniversary excitement continues throughout the weekend, featuring engaging creative workshops at Anko's other locations in TriNoma, Alabang Town Center, and Manila Bay. Shoppers can still participate in sessions like gift wrapping and calligraphy, aimed at inspiring them to craft unique, personal, and meaningful holiday gifts.
Beyond the physical stores, the brand's digital community is thriving. The Anko Club has rapidly expanded to over 34,000 members, all of whom enjoy exclusive perks, early collection access, and design inspiration via the dedicated app.
As Anko Philippines turns a year old, it feels less like a foreign brand finding its footing and more like a local favorite that’s already made itself at home. At the heart of that connection is Anne Curtis, with her deep Australian roots and undeniable Pinoy heart, serving as the living link between the brand’s beginnings and its new home. Through her, Anko proves that an Australian brand can speak fluent Filipino warmth.
