Filipinos’ love affair with milk tea has only grown richer, and Tealive is betting big on a centuries-old Chinese classic to keep things exciting. The Malaysia-born brand has rolled out its boldest tea base yet—the Da Hong Pao Oolong, or “Big Red Robe”—a brew long celebrated in China for its roasted aroma and smooth, full-bodied flavor.
For Tealive, which entered the Philippine market in 2022, the move signals more than just a menu refresh. It’s a bid to elevate everyday milk tea runs into something closer to a cultural experience. The company is positioning the Da Hong Pao series as a way for Filipinos to discover flavors beyond the ordinary.
The Da Hong Pao line debuts in four variations: a light milk tea for calorie-conscious drinkers, a konjac jelly blend for those who enjoy extra texture, a café latte-style mix, and a pure tea option for purists. Each one highlights the depth of oolong while keeping the playful versatility that has made milk tea a staple among barkadas, students, and young professionals.
But Tealive didn’t stop at new recipes. Its bestselling Bang Bang series now comes with Da Hong Pao’s roasted notes, while the Snowy drinks—topped with whipped cream and cookie crumbs—get a more premium edge with the oolong base. The result is a line of familiar favorites with a more layered, indulgent character.
To drum up excitement, Tealive is offering a limited-time “Bestea Bundle” from September 18 to November 5. Customers can get a Da Hong Pao drink plus a plushie-bag for P350 in-store or P420 via delivery apps.
In just three years, Tealive has managed to position itself as a lifestyle brand, showing up in study sessions, office breaks, and weekend catch-ups. The Da Hong Pao launch underscores that identity—taking a legendary brew and reshaping it for today’s milk tea culture.
With a heritage-rich tea base now in everyday cups, Tealive is reminding Filipinos why milk tea remains more than just a passing fad—it’s comfort, community, and a little indulgence in every sip.
