The iconic McDonald’s Quezon Avenue store closed its doors on December 22, 2024, marking the end of a memorable chapter for countless patrons. However, McDonald’s invited long-time customers to create new memories at the “ReHomecoming” celebration held at its new QA Ligaya store, which opened shortly after.
The Quezon Avenue branch, which opened in 1984 as the eighth McDonald’s store in the Philippines, had been a special gathering spot for over 40 years. From first dates to birthday parties, family get-togethers, and more, it became a cherished place for countless individuals. When the news of its closure broke, nostalgia filled the air as patrons shared heartfelt memories, both online and in person.
Joey Perez recalled his connection to the store: “This McDonald’s holds a special place in my heart—it’s where I first met my wife while she was working as a crew back in the 1980s,” he commented. “It’s where we celebrated my kids’ first birthdays and countless other special moments as a family.”
Roman Sanchez shared a similar sentiment, posting photos of himself and his siblings enjoying the playplace. “Our parents used to bring us here when we were still kids. So many memories,” he wrote. “Thank you, McDonald’s Quezon Avenue! LOVE KO ‘TO!”
Anamarie Gutierrez also reflected on important moments spent at the restaurant. “Too many memories at this place,” she wrote. “My daughter Alex celebrated her 18th birthday here, a surprise party for our mom on her 73rd, and our nephew Nate’s 7th birthday.”
For Madell Louis Samonte, a former crew member who later became a local store marketing assistant, McDonald’s Quezon Avenue was where she started her career and experienced her first marketing photoshoot. “The Golden Arches aren’t just a symbol of fast food; to me, they represent a chapter of beginnings, of creativity, and of nostalgia,” she wrote. “The memories created here linger, bittersweet yet beautiful.”
Winnie Santiago, a pioneering cashier at McDonald’s Quezon Avenue, shared her pride in working at the store. “I was so proud to be a McDonald’s crew member,” she recalled. “It was sosyal to be part of the crew!”
Adi Hernandez, McDonald’s Philippines Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations and Impact, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love from customers, both young and old. “It was very heartwarming to see and feel the love from our customers, our crew, past and present,” she said.
New QA Ligaya store
With the closing of the beloved Quezon Avenue store, McDonald’s opened the doors to the new QA Ligaya store, inviting customers to continue creating lasting memories. Last Jan. 27, McDonald’s hosted a “ReHomecoming” celebration, filled with exciting activities and surprises. Customers who visited the new location received special treats, and a photo booth was available for capturing the moment.
“The opening of the Quezon Avenue Ligaya store is another milestone in our journey in the Philippines,” Hernandez said. “It reflects our commitment to reaching more Filipinos with good food while making a positive impact on the communities we serve in meaningful ways.”
Since George T. Yang opened McDonald’s first store on Morayta Street in Sampaloc, Manila, in 1981, the brand has seen rapid growth, culminating in 792 stores nationwide by the end of 2024.