Homegrown snack brand Captain Calamares officially welcomed Alex Gonzaga as its newest brand ambassador during a contract signing event held at Tio Pepe Filipino Restaurant in Alabang.
The event marked the beginning of a strategic partnership rooted in authenticity, fun, and Filipino pride.
The event signaled an exciting new chapter for Captain Calamares as it continues to strengthen its presence in the competitive food and franchising space. Known for her relatable personality, strong digital influence, and genuine connection with Filipino audiences, Gonzaga embodies the brand’s values and vision of bringing feel-good, everyday food experiences to more Filipinos nationwide.
“This partnership is very natural for us,” shared John Carlo Prado, CEO of Captain Calamares. “We really took time to find someone who truly fits the brand, someone who is fun, professional, and authentic. Alex represents all of that.”
During the event, Gonzaga expressed her excitement over joining the Captain Calamares family, emphasizing the importance of sincerity when partnering with brands.
“Sobrang happy and excited ako,” Gonzaga said. “May 52 stores na sila ngayon, and for sure marami pang mabubuksan through franchising. For Filipinos, pagdating sa appetizer at pica-pica, calamares talaga ‘yan. Kaya sobrang swak.”
She also highlighted that trust and product experience were key factors in her decision.
“Hindi kami basta nag-yes agad. We really try the product first before we share it with our followers.
The collaboration aims to roll out engaging and lighthearted campaigns that resonate with everyday Filipinos, while reinforcing Captain Calamares’ position as a proudly local brand with national ambitions.
Founded just two years ago, Captain Calamares’ growth story is deeply rooted in grit and innovation. Prado shared how the brand started from scratch, with him personally selling products daily in 2023.
“From 4 PM to 10 PM, nagtitinda talaga ako. Uuwi ng gabi, tulog ng ilang oras, then back to work. That story keeps us grounded and hungry to innovate,” he shared.
Today, Captain Calamares has expanded to 52 stores nationwide, with new branches recently opened in SM Bacolod and upcoming expansions in Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo in the coming months. This growth underscores the brand’s strong momentum and appeal to franchise investors.In addition to the contract signing, Captain Calamares also unveiled its new catchy brand jingle during the event, further reinforcing its fun, youthful, and memorable brand identity.
The intimate gathering was attended by select members of the media, as well as Mommy Pinty, Alex Gonzaga’s mother and talent manager, highlighting the close-knit and family-oriented spirit behind the partnership.
With Gonzaga on board, Captain Calamares looks forward to a long-term collaboration focused on meaningful engagement, sustained business growth, and celebrating Filipino taste and entrepreneurship, one calamares serving at a time
