The grand opening of Hearts and Bells Bakery at SM Megamall was made even more special by the presence of Star Magic artist and Pinoy Big Brother Gen 11 4th Big Placer Kai Montinola. Kai’s presence as a guest spotlighted not only her support but also the sweetness she embodies, perfectly matching the bakery’s essence of bringing joy and delight through their confections.
It all started with a small dream—a 6.25-square-meter kiosk at the bustling bridgeway of SM Megamall. For Hearts and Bells Bakery, that little corner was the fulfillment of a long-awaited vision. But just as quickly as that dream began to take shape, the world changed. The pandemic forced closures and tough decisions, threatening to dim what had just begun to shine.
And yet, the team refused to let go. They held on to the Megamall kiosk, determined to keep their vision alive. With grit and creativity, they pivoted, channeling their energy into “everyday celebration cakes.” These became not just desserts but also small joys that brought comfort to families during uncertain times.
Fast forward to August 22, 2025, and that once-tiny kiosk has grown into a 16.5-square-meter counter store. Still located at the second-floor bridgeway, the space is bigger, brighter, and designed to showcase an even wider range of confections—from signature cakes to custom creations.
Kai Montinola’s presence was a boost. She shared her connection with the bakery, saying, “I was invited to be here kasi they were the ones who actually made my cake for my 18th birthday, my debut. So, syempre, to show gratitude, I wanted to show up to show my support as well kasi I just found out today that they have been running this business for 14 years and they have been so low-key about it but their business has been running very smoothly. I love that they’re not very flashy about their achievement. I gladly appeared here.” The young artist was impressed and inspired by the owners’ humility.
In an interview after the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Kai was asked about her most recent achievements and she said, “My life has basically changed very recently lang din after I entered Kuya’s house. Pero I would say my biggest achievement so far is being able to push through. I know it’s not exactly a title that I achieved, but sa lahat ng pinagdaanan ko, I’m so glad that I’m still here pushing through. I could say my first album, my first album launching, and my first MMK, but iba pa din kasi sa lahat ng ‘yun, kinaya ko pang to push through it basically, kay ko pang i-up ng isa pang level. And I’m glad that even after everything I’ve been through right now, I’m still able to say that I’m still ready for more.”
Kai also expressed her feelings about being tapped as an endorser when Star Magic has a long list of promising stars her age. “S’yempre nakakataba ng puso,” she responded when asked about it. “As I said kanina, baguhan lang ako, bago lang ako sa industriyang ito. However, it has always been something I dreamt of. So, to be chosen, to be acknowledged, I feel validated that they chose me as an endorser to stand for their brands. And siguro hindi naman siya bad na pressure. It’s a good type of pressure. Mas naeencourage along pagbutihin pa anumang gagawin ko.”
She added, “I take these brands carefully. I need to know that I stand by their mission-vision at nag-aalign ang kanilang brand name with my brand as well. I’m very thankful. Super grateful. Unbelievable. As you said, sa dami ng stars sa ABS-CBN and Star Magic, I am honored that I am one of the names chosen.”
Her message for supporters and fans was straight from her heart. Kais said, “In the past few years, as I always say to those who support me, before I started and to the supporters I got along the way of my career, thank you so much. Because not everyone gets the privilege to be seen, to be acknowledged, and to be loved. Not everyone really gets that privilege. I’m so glad to be one of those people who not only be loved, to be appreciated as well for the things that I enjoy doing. When I sing, they laugh, they smile, they love doing it. They even request for it. I’m glad that I’m able to share my talents to a bunch of people and that it makes them happy. So thank you so much, really. I will never be tired of saying thank you so much to those people who support me. I wouldn’t have my blessings if it weren’t for their support. Thank you so much.”
The event was a beautiful showcase of resilience, passion, and community. As the doors opened to the newly expanded Hearts and Bells Bakery, it was clear that this celebration was proof to dreaming big, holding on through hardships, and the power of sweetness to connect and uplift.
Kai’s appearance was a show of genuine support. This emphasized the bakery’s values—sweetness not just in their confections, but in their perseverance and gratitude. Her words and warm smile perfectly complemented the occasion.
As Hearts and Bells Bakery continues to grow, they get on with the journey alongside Kai’s inspiring story.
WATCH:
@randomrepublika SWEETNESS OVERLOAD: #PBBGen11 2nd Big Placer and #StarMagic artist #KaiMontinola attended the #HeartsAndBellsBakery ♬ Marilag – Dionela
@randomrepublika SWEETNESS OVERLOAD: #PBBGen11 2nd Big Placer and #StarMagic artist #KaiMontinola attended the #HeartsAndBellsBakery ♬ Who's That Girl (feat. Eve) – Guy Sebastian
@randomrepublika SWEETNESS OVERLOAD: #PBBGen11 2nd Big Placer and #StarMagic artist #KaiMontinola attended the #HeartsAndBellsBakery ♬ Misteryoso – Cup of Joe
FULL INTERVIEW:
