If there is one flavor that instantly signals Christmas to Filipinos, it is the familiar mix of sweet ham and something a little indulgent on the side. This holiday season, Subway Philippines taps into that nostalgia and gives it a modern, cheesy upgrade with the Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub, a limited-edition sandwich that feels both festive and comfortingly familiar.
Available nationwide starting November 19, this seasonal offering brings together holiday flavors many Filipinos grew up with, reimagined in Subway’s signature sandwich style. The result is a sub that tastes like Christmas, just packed neatly into bread.
A Filipino Holiday Flavor, Reimagined by Subway
Filipino celebrations often revolve around food, and Christmas is no exception. From noche buena spreads to family reunions, sweet ham almost always finds its way to the table. Subway Philippines clearly understood this cultural connection when it created the Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub.
At its core, the sandwich is a nod to the classic pairing of ham and sweetness. Tender slices of chicken and ham are layered with tangy pineapple jam, then topped with melted Smoked Gouda Cheese from the USA. Everything is tucked into Subway’s freshly baked bread and finished with crisp vegetables for balance.
The flavor combination hits all the right notes. Sweet, savory, smoky, and creamy come together in one satisfying bite. It is indulgent enough to feel like a holiday treat, yet light enough to enjoy any day of the season.
Why Smoked Gouda Makes All the Difference
What truly elevates this sandwich is the cheese. The Smoked Gouda used in the sub is not just any cheese. It recently earned Best of Class at the 2024 World Championship Cheese Contest, a recognition that speaks volumes about its quality and craftsmanship.
Made in Wisconsin, often called America’s Dairyland, this Smoked Gouda is known for its smooth texture and gentle smokiness. It melts beautifully into the sandwich, tying together the sweetness of the ham and pineapple while adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
For Filipino diners who may be used to processed cheese slices in sandwiches, this is a noticeable upgrade. It introduces a premium cheese experience that still feels approachable and familiar.
Cheese from the USA Brings Global Quality to Local Tables
The Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub is part of a wider effort by Cheese from the USA to introduce high-quality American dairy products to Filipino consumers. Through partnerships with popular brands like Subway, premium cheeses become more accessible and easier to enjoy in everyday meals.
Benjamin Fong, Head of Culinary Innovation for APAC at Subway, shared that the goal was to create something that felt festive without being overwhelming. The sandwich, he explained, was designed to highlight flavors Filipinos already love while keeping it fresh and balanced.
For Cheese from the USA, the collaboration goes beyond just taste. According to Dali Ghazalay, Regional Director for Southeast Asia at USDEC SEA, food plays a central role in Filipino culture, especially during celebrations. Having U.S. cheeses featured in a sandwich inspired by the Filipino holiday season makes the partnership particularly meaningful.
The success of holiday-themed menu items often depends on how well they connect emotionally with diners. This sub works because it feels personal. It borrows flavors associated with family gatherings, shared meals, and long conversations around the table.
At the same time, it reflects a growing trend in the Philippine food scene. Filipinos are increasingly open to premium ingredients and global flavors, as long as they remain relatable. Using award-winning Smoked Gouda in a sandwich inspired by holiday ham strikes that balance perfectly.
It also helps that Subway has already tested the waters. Earlier this year, the brand introduced the Triple Cheese Steak Sub featuring a Shredded Mexican Blend from Joseph Farms. The positive response showed that Filipino diners are eager to explore better-quality cheeses in familiar formats.
When and Where You Can Get It
The Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub is available at all Subway Philippines stores nationwide until January 2026, giving diners plenty of time to enjoy it throughout the holiday season and beyond.
Here are the suggested prices:
- PHP 210 for a 6-inch ala carte
- PHP 400 for a Footlong ala carte
- PHP 220 for a Wrap ala carte
Prices may vary depending on location. The sandwich is available for dine-in and delivery, making it an easy option for quick lunches, holiday errands, or even a casual alternative to heavier Christmas meals.
A Festive Treat Worth Trying
Not every holiday food innovation feels authentic, but this one manages to strike a chord. By blending Filipino Christmas flavors with premium Smoked Gouda from the USA, Subway Philippines delivers a sandwich that feels celebratory without being over-the-top.
Whether you are craving something nostalgic or simply want to try a new seasonal offering, the Gouda Pineapple Ham Sub is a reminder that familiar flavors can still surprise you when done right.