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Art in the Park is back, and BPI is giving credit cardholders access to exclusive benefits


Artwork by Demi Padua, this year’s Art in The Park’s featured artist, for BPI. Artwork will be printed on fans exclusively distributed to BPI clients at the fair.
 

The highly anticipated yearly art expo, Art in the Park, is returning for its 18th year, offering an eclectic display of Filipino ingenuity and a special chance for art fans to immerse themselves in a lively display of talent. This year’s event, which is organized by Philippine Art Events, Inc., brings together over 60 exhibitors from independent art spaces, galleries, art collectives, and student organizations, providing a vibrant forum for interaction and involvement.

Art in the Park, which will be held on March 17, 2024, at Jaime Velasquez Park, Salcedo Village in Makati, provides a wide selection of artworks at a price cap of P70,000, enabling attendees to purchase sought-after pieces at reasonable costs. Through its all-inclusive approach, Art in the Park hopes to promote a closer relationship between artists and the community as well as democratize art appreciation.

One of the featured artists at this year’s event is Demi Padua, a native of Calapan, Oriental Mindoro, whose journey in artistry began at a young age. Drawing inspiration from childhood imagination, everyday experiences, and the desire to express his true identity, Demi’s paintings and sculptures captivate viewers with their Trompe L’oeil style, blending theatrical production elements with visual arts. 

As part of its commitment to making art accessible to all, Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) is offering exclusive privileges to its credit cardholders during Art in the Park 2024. BPI Credit Cardholders can enjoy up to 6 months Real 0% Special Installment Plan (SIP) for a minimum purchase of P3,000 at the fair. Additionally, BPI offers a Buy Now Pay 3 months Later option and a 100% Bonus Madness Limit on installment purchases for qualified cardholders, providing a convenient and affordable way to acquire exclusive art pieces. 

Art in the Park is another day of celebration for art enthusiasts to foster a deeper appreciation on Filipino’s creativity and continues to be a platform to make art more accessible to the public.  

Art enthusiasts of all ages should look forward to an engaging experience from Art in the Park in 2024. Don’t pass up the chance to interact with the dynamic Filipino art scene and discover the variety of talents on display at this year’s festival.

Visit https://www.bpi.com.ph/personal/rewards-and-promotions/promos/art-in-the-park-2024 for additional details about Art in the Park and its exhibitors, or follow us on our official social media pages.

March 15, 2024 by
Lifestyle

The Year’s Most Important Day Is Revealed by Anne Curtis

And No, It’s Not Her Birthday!

An overseas Filipino worker talked on how tough it is to be far from their loved ones, especially on their birthdays, in a segment of a popular noontime show. Mishearing, show host Anne Curtis exclaimed, “my birthday?Her amusing presumption made a lasting impression on the internet, and the gaffe turned into a global meme that made foreign workers want to return home annually to celebrate Anne’s birthday.

But this year, actor, businesswoman, and brand ambassador for Manulife Philippines Anne Curtis delivers a notable birthday reminder. As Anne approaches another year of life, she feels that the most significant day that everyone should consider is their tomorrow.

“It’s the best gift you can give yourself, ensuring a better tomorrow for yourself and your loved ones. Knowing that you can live confidently in the present because the future is taken care of gives you security and peace of mind. And that’s my biggest birthday wish – that every Filipino can stay healthy and secure better tomorrows, through health and life protection and financial security that comes with a good insurance plan,” said Anne, who has also been a Manulife customer for 14 years. Recently, she also shared three practical tips on how to save smarter for the future.

Manulife Philippines provides FutureBoost Retirement, an affordable life insurance plan that enables you to prepare more wisely for retirement so you can fully enjoy the next chapter of your life’s journey. After all, your life in the future depends on the preparations you make today. In order to help you accumulate wealth and accomplish your objectives, Manulife’s newest retirement plan has a special automatic fund management function that enables users to optimize returns in the early years and reduce risks as retirement age approaches. In addition, FutureBoost Retirement offers incentives and awards for recurring business, timely payments, and higher contributions. FutureBoost Retirement includes life insurance, so you may provide your loved ones additional security. Upgrade your coverage at any time with a variety of add-on benefits, such as riders for critical illness protection, to ensure you are ready for unforeseen events and medical crises.

Go to www.manulife.com.ph. to find out more about how to prepare for the future like Anne.

March 14, 2024 by
Lifestyle

As it celebrates its fifth anniversary, InLife Sheroes highlights Filipino women and introduces the InLife Sheroes Awards


InLife Executive Chairperson Nina D. Aguas (4th from left) and InLife Dreamweaver Megastar Sharon Cuneta-Pangilinan led guests in exchanging Sheroes bracelets representing the bonds formed these past five years and the promise to stand by each other through thick and thin. With them are (from left) host KaladKaren Davila, Ms. Mitch Valdez, Aryn Cristobal, and Nicki Morena.

In an afternoon event celebrating its accomplishments over the past five years, InLife Sheroes put a spotlight on women under the direction of Executive Chairperson and InLife Sheroes primary mover Nina D. Aguas and InLife Dreamweaver, Megastar Sharon Cuneta.

Other performers were stand-up comedian Nicki Morena, multi-talented performer Aryn Cristobal, and veteran actress, singer, and comedian Mitch Valdez. Ms. Cuneta was not the only one who performed. The event was presented by KaladKaren, a versatile comedian. It was such a spectacular event to witness these powerful women advocating a program with their fellow women. As we commemorate the 5th anniversary of Inlife Sheroes, graced by these amazing women during the event, we are greatly astonished at how Inlife Sheroes has continued their legacy over the years. The event was filled with joy and admiration from all the people that had been there, as they also received their awards, and they all shared what more Inlife Sheroes has in store for all of us.

Ms. Aguas recalled how from a goal of reaching one million Filipino women three years after its inception in 2019, InLife Sheroes, now 5 years old, has reached more than 6.5 million Filipino women through various on-ground and online activities.

“InLife Sheroes will reach out to more Filipino women so that they become empowered through financial education and inclusion. This will be done through various digital/online and on-the-ground initiatives nationwide coupled with partnerships with various like-minded organizations.”

InLife Sheroes, InLife’s flagship program for women empowerment, was established in partnership with the  International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group. It aims to reach out to the relatively untapped segment of the women in the Philippines, especially women entrepreneurs who need life and health protection as well as financial solutions to expand their businesses. InLife Sheroes’ four focus areas are financial literacy, health and wellness, women-specific solutions, and access to social and business networks.

In order to exemplify these, InLife forged strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations such as the Philippine Business Coalition for Women Empowerment, the University of the Philippines – Manila’s Mu Sigma Phi, I Can Serve Foundation, Imaginable Impact, For The Women Foundation, Connected Women and major hospitals in the country among others, aside from its bancassurance partner UnionBank of the Philippines, associate Insular Health Care, and social commitment arm Insular Foundation, Inc.

Recently, InLife launched a critical illness life insurance plan called Resilience Female Cancers, aimed at providing coverage for women who would suffer from nine kinds of cancers such as: breast, ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancer; uterine sarcomas, malignant mixed mullerian tumors, malignant germ cell tumors, fallopian tube cancer and leiomyosarcomas.

Meanwhile, Ms. Cuneta, a Shero herself, launched a video series on her YouTube channel, with the first episode discussing the importance of choosing a healthier lifestyle and preparing for the financial impact of health emergencies.

InLife also introduced the InLife Sheroes Awards at the anniversary event on March 12 at the Manila Peninsula’s Rigodon Ballroom. The Awards Program will recognize and honor Filipino women who exemplify the four pillars of InLife Sheroes: leaders in business whose goods and services cater to the needs of women, champions of financial education, and advocates for physical and/or mental health and wellness. Nominations must be emailed to [email protected] between March 12 and August 15, 2024, and must include a 500-word summary of the nominee’s efforts and causes on her profile.

With Ms. Sharon Cuneta and Ms. Mitch Valdez

Go to https://www.inlifesheroes.com/ for additional details about the InLife Sheroes.

March 14, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle, News

Adopting a sustainable work environment

As per its commitments, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PPCPI) keeps creating initiatives and strategies to help its staff members understand and accept the importance of sustainability in their daily lives. In keeping with the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN, PCPPI, the sole manufacturer and distributor of beloved brands like Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and Gatorade, holds itself responsible to three main pillars: inclusive business, water stewardship, and circular economy.

“Today’s consumers exercise a keener sense of discernment, particularly when it relates to the values of the companies they support,” said Atty. Carina S. Bayon, PCPPI’s Chief Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Officer. “For PCPPI, sustainability has always been at the heart of our operations. From encouraging process and technological innovation to employee education and engagement, we make a conscious effort to create positive impact on society, the environment, and the communities where we operate,” she added.

Caring for the environment remains a top priority for PCPPI, and programs that encourage employees to adopt mindful habits is key. For example, waste segregation is practiced across its facilities as part of its guidelines. There are separate bins for recyclable and non-recyclable waste materials to allow the proper handling and recycling of items that may still be processed for alternative use.

Select PCPPI offices also utilize LED and motion sensor lights, as they consume less energy compared to regular incandescent lights. Through the annual Working Environment Measurement (a sampling method for measuring work environment or conditions) review conducted by its Environment, Health, Safety, and Security (EHSS) team, management gets to ensure that all of PCPPI offices and production facilities observe optimal working conditions for employee well-being and operational productivity.

PCPPI employees are also encouraged to bring their own reusable utensils at work, like stainless utensils and bamboo tumblers. Water refilling stations are also set up to minimize the use of plastic cups when employees refresh themselves throughout the day. Going digital also allows employees to reduce paper use, as emails, conferencing platforms, and other network-based channels facilitating information exchange and collaboration across PCPPI’s offices nationwide.

Atty. Bayon shared that aside from saving on expenses, implementing sustainability-focused policies in the workplace can contribute to employee health and well-being, as well as a shared sense of purpose. “Achieving sustainability is a shared responsibility—there’s no single team or department that carries it forward. It is the promise of creating a better future for generations to come drives us at PCPPI to champion this cause as we practice responsible operations,” she said.

Well-known beverage brands like Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Gatorade, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Sting, Premier, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Milkis are exclusively manufactured and distributed in the Philippines by PCPPI. To learn more about PCPPI, go to www.pepsiphilippines.com.   

March 13, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Angkas Wins People Over with a Funny App Update Announcement


Watch the full ad here: https://fb.watch/qKt3lDbW3X/

The well-known motorbike taxi app Angkas used an innovative approach to promote their most recent update: a heartfelt and humorous video ad. The video, which debuted on March 9th and stars CEO George Royeca, is receiving a lot of good feedback online.

Royeca is the source of the allure. He welcomes a low-budget, PSA-type production with purposefully embarrassing scenes. His self-deprecating humor lends him an immediate sense of relatability. As a lighthearted homage to the app’s upgrades, the video even adopts the appearance of a vintage DVD player, replete with a bouncing Angkas logo.

But it’s not all about laughs. Royeca acknowledges user feedback and openly discusses the app’s earlier limitations. This transparency builds trust with Angkas customers.  His passion for the app’s potential to improve commutes and livelihoods is also evident, making him appear invested in the Angkas community.

The main takeaway from the video is that the new app provides a much better experience. Faster booking, a more user-friendly interface, better location monitoring, and even cashless payment options are what customers can anticipate.

Angkas created an educational and engaging film by fusing comedy, honesty, and sincere excitement. They effectively conveyed the advantages of the app and gave visitors a favorable image of George Royeca, their CEO. Both Angkas and their consumers benefit from it. Are you prepared to see the update for yourself? Get the latest version of Angkas app now! For iPhone users, it is available on the Apple App Store; for Android users, it is available on the Google Play Store. Search for the one whose logo has glitter on it!

March 13, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

foodpanda logistics recognizes Women’s History Month by livelihood initiative for women in Ka-Panda

Women on Wheels initiative aims to foster women empowerment

In honor of Women’s Month, foodpanda logistics is providing livelihood packages and training to women in their Ka-panda delivery fleet.

The program, known as Ka-pandaBIZ: Women on Wheels (WoW), was formally introduced on International Women’s Day. The recipients were chosen to receive business funding valued at Php 100,000 as well as training to launch their own small businesses.

Foodpanda Logistics Philippines’ Rider Experience Lead, Ron Sanders, stressed the value of helping their delivery partners—especially the women Ka-pandas—achieve success and better living conditions.

Sanders stated that as of 2023, the number of women in the growing fleet of foodpanda logistics delivery partners has increased by thrice, demonstrating the real benefits of this approach.

“With Ka-pandaBIZ: WoW, we are not just celebrating women, we are actively working to enhance their productivity, income, and living standards,” he remarked, highlighting the program’s commitment to inclusive business practices and women’s empowerment.

The beneficiaries will undergo online training sessions, mentoring, on-ground retail store visits, and catch-ups with mentors to be spearheaded by foodpanda logistics’ official partner organization, HAPINOY.

Hapinoy’s Mark Ruiz shared that this initiative will be anchored under their training and mentoring program, HapiSkwela, designed for sari-sari store owners. This program provides education, business tools, personal development training, and values formation. “Learning from all these aspects will serve as the foundation of their journey as happy, growth-oriented, and socially responsible microentrepreneurs,” he explained.

Ruiz added that they are delighted to be chosen as a partner in this endeavor. “foodpanda logistics shares our commitment to upskilling and providing sustainable livelihood to these women.”

Supporting livelihood for women as Ka-panda delivery partners

According to the November 2023 Labor Force Survey (LFS), there has been a decrease in the participation of women in the labor force this year, dropping from 57.8% to 55.4%. Factors such as family responsibilities, schooling, and age-related considerations have influenced this decline, resulting in a lower participation rate compared to men, which stands at 75%.

In response, the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has set a target under the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) to increase female labor force participation from 2023 to 2028 by creating more economic opportunities for women.

Acknowledging this disparity, Sanders emphasized the significance of offering equal opportunities for women to become part of their delivery fleet. “We extend a warm invitation to all women interested in working as delivery partners at foodpanda logistics, and we’re fully committed to supporting and guiding them every step of the way,” he affirmed.

Ka-pandaBIZ: a livelihood program for Ka-pandas

A key element of foodpanda logistics’ larger livelihood program, Ka-pandaBIZ, which aims to provide delivery partners and their families with sustainable economic prospects, is the WoW initiative.

After completing the Ka-pandaBIZ program with success, three Ka-pandas were given starting funding and in-depth business training for their sari-sari establishments. Following a rigorous training program where they gained expertise in a range of business management domains, such as product marketing, store setting, financial administration, and business expansion, they graduated last year.

“Similiar to these Ka-pandas who have also undergone an extensive training curriculum, these women are poised to become thriving micro-entrepreneurs, and we hope they will also drive positive change within their communities,” Sanders said.

March 11, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Schneider Electric highlights the necessity for digital transformation in the PH hospitality business by stating that two out of three passengers prefer green hotels


During the Hotel + Accommodation Industry Summit Philippines 2024 held at Edsa Shangri-La Manila, Schneider Electric’s Segment Head of East Asia and Japan Madhu Menon told leaders and experts of the hospitality and accommodation sector that the future of PH hotels is through the application of integrated digital solutions in their operations. 
 

At the recent Hotel + Accommodation Industry Summit Philippines 2024, Schneider Electric—a leader in energy management and digital automation—emphasized the importance of sustainability in the hotel and lodging sector, noting that two out of every three travelers now favor establishments that use green practices.

In line with the first UNWTO World Tourism Barometer of the Year, which predicts that international travel will rise by 2% over 2019 to pre-pandemic levels in 2024, there is an increasing demand for sustainable businesses.

Schneider Electric’s Segment Head of East Asia and Japan Madhu Menon explained that digital transformation could enable the industry to continue offering comfort and convenience to travelers while reducing its energy consumption.

“Travelers are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint,” Menon said as he emphasized that “this shift in priorities underscores the need for hotels to embrace innovative solutions that seamlessly integrate sustainability and efficiency into their operations.” He added that hotels consume 50% more energy than similar-sized residential buildings despite having only 55% occupancy rates on average.

This integration can be accomplished with end-to-end digital solutions that Schneider Electric offers through EcoStruxure™ IT, the company’s Internet of Things (IoT) platform that provides energy management and automation solutions. 

Specifically, this technology features the Asset Advisor and Building Advisor, offering cloud-based analytics to monitor and control their energy use in real time, identify savings opportunities, and reduce their overall carbon footprint. Meanwhile, its Building Operation and Power Monitoring Expert provides data-driven insights to inform hotels about possible problems and diagnostics and determine areas for maintenance– decreasing downtime and guest complaints.

Schneider Electric identified four focus areas where end-to-end solutions could be used to future-proof hotels in the Philippines: lowering carbon footprint through the use of greener energy sources; increasing staff productivity and operational efficiency; guaranteeing continuity and agility in operations; and providing outstanding experiences for both guests and staff.

Digitalization and sustainability are becoming necessities as the Philippine hotel sector prepares for a tourist boom. In order to help hotels transform into greener, more efficient, and future-proof businesses, Schneider Electric is prepared to work with them as a partner.

March 8, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle, News

500 Coca-Cola outlets will join Tindahan Extra Mile as the company increases its recycling footprint in Bacolod


Bacolod City Mayor Albee Benitez, BEST President Isabelita Mercado, Coca-Cola Philippines Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability Sr. Director Ivanna Dela Torre, and Coca-Cola Philippines Sr. Director for Franchise Operations Pablo Medina signed an agreement launching the Tindahan Extra Mile program in Bacolod City.

The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle Program was introduced in Bacolod City by Coca-Cola Philippines in collaboration with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO).

Customers in Bacolod City can take greater action regarding recycling and contribute to the advancement of a circular economy for plastic packaging by enlisting 500 sari-sari stores and carinderias as new collecting partners.

Albee Benitez, the mayor of Bacolod City, praised the effort and underlined the value of collaborating with businesses, organizations, social entrepreneurs, and non-governmental organizations to provide opportunities that have a lasting impact and can improve people’s lives.

“The Tindahan Extra Mile Program is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By mobilizing our local entrepreneurs and fostering community engagement, we are taking significant strides towards a greener and more sustainable Bacolod,” he said.

“As we launch the Tindahan Extra Mile Program, we are not merely initiating a program; we are igniting a movement,” Mayor Albee emphasized. “Together with BENRO, BEST, Coca-Cola Philippines, and our dedicated micro-retailers, we have the power to effect real change and preserve our environment for future generations,” he added.

How does TEM benefit micro-retailers?

Through Tindahan Extra Mile, participating micro-retailers will receive financial incentives by collecting PET plastic bottles. The program encourages the community to partake in a shared responsibility towards a cleaner Bacolod by providing convenient collection points in front of sari-sari stores and carinderias. Residents can easily drop off their empty bottles for recycling. Store owners will accrue environmental points proportional to the bottles they collect, redeemable for cash or products through the bXTRA app.


Coca-Cola Philippines, BEST, and the City Government of Bacolod engage micro-retailers
to join Tindahan Extra Mile and set up PET bottle recycling bins in their stores

“Investing in the Tindahan Extra Mile program aligns perfectly with Coca-Cola Philippines’ goal to collect and recycle the equivalent of every bottle we sell in the country. By empowering women micro-retailers, who make up a significant portion of sari-sari stores and carinderia owners in the Philippines, TEM creates a convenient and accessible network for consumers to recycle,” said Pablo Medina, Senior Director for Franchise Operations at Coca-Cola Philippines. “This program not only helps foster environmental responsibility but also provides opportunities for financial independence and growth for these female entrepreneurs, driving positive change within their communities.”
 

How can a micro-retailer become a TEM member?


Sari-sari store and carinderia owners in Bacolod City sign up to become members
of the Tindahan Extra Mile Program.
 

Any sari-sari store and carinderia owner can become a member of the Tindahan Extra Mile in three easy steps.  

Step 1: On the Tindahan Extra Mile Facebook page, sign up on the bXTRA website using your email address.

Step 2: Collect empty PET plastic bottles and bring them to the nearest TEM Trash to Cashback Collection Hub.

Step 3: Exchange your PET bottles for a TEM kit and card to start earning environmental points.

Watch here to learn more about Tindahan Extra Mile.

BEST Senior Vice President Jan Vincent Mercado urges micro-retailers to join TEM as

members. “In partnership with Coca-Cola Philippines, our aim is to empower micro- entrepreneurs to become environmental stewards,” he said. “We acknowledge their significance and influence within communities, emphasizing their potential to encourage community members to segregate plastic waste and participate in recycling endeavors,” Mercado said.

Empowering micro-retailers for a World Without Waste

To enable more micro-retailers and inspire collective action towards plastic bottle recycling, Coca-Cola Philippines will bring the Tindahan Extra Mile Program to other areas such as Cebu and Cagayan de Oro in 2024.

Coca-Cola Philippines introduced “May Ikabobote Pa,” a consumer engagement initiative, last year in an effort to inform, uplift, and encourage more people to recycle their old bottles and cans.

The company has launched new bottles that are entirely composed of recycled PET plastic in an effort to promote the circularity of plastic packaging. Wilkins Pure 500 ml, Sprite 500 ml, and Coca-Cola Original 190 ml are currently carrying this innovative container. Since these bottles may be recycled numerous times, less virgin plastic is produced and utilized overall.

Through the Coca-Cola Sustainability Hub, customers can find the closest collection locations and learn more about Coca-Cola Philippines’ recycling programs.

March 7, 2024 by
Lifestyle, News

Manulife Opens New Davao Branch, Reiterating Its Promise to Use Insurance to Protect More Filipinos in Mindanao


Manulife opens new branch in Davao City, Philippines. In this photo (second from left) are Rahul Hora, President and CEO, and Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer, Manulife Philippines, with Manulife financial advisors and agency leaders from Davao.
 

The newest agency branch of Manulife, a worldwide financial services provider, opened its doors in Mindanao recently. It is situated in Aeon Towers, J.P. Laurel, Bajada, Davao City. The company’s largest branch has opened in the provinces of Davao and Mindanao, demonstrating its unwavering dedication to offering the local Filipino population comprehensive, adaptable, and easily accessible insurance products.

Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer, Manulife Philippines, expressed excitement about the company’s expansion in Davao City. “Our commitment is stronger than ever to financially protect more Filipinos in Mindanao through our innovative insurance and investment solutions that aim to address our customers’ most pressing needs, especially when it comes to health and life protection, retirement planning, and investments. It will be much easier and more convenient for Davaoeños to consult with our empowered Manulife financial advisors as the new branch is now located at the heart of the city.” 


Manulife’s biggest branch in Mindanao. In this photo are Rahul Hora (center in dark grey) President and CEO, Manulife Philippines; Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer, Manulife Philippines (7th from right); and the company’s agency leaders and financial advisors in Davao.



Rahul Hora, President and CEO of Manulife Philippines; Sailesh Nalinakshan, Chief Agency Officer; Maiko Diaz De Rivera, Head of Distribution Operations; JF Salazar, National Agency Sales Head; and Manulife financial advisors and agency leaders were in attendance during the opening ceremony.

To learn more about Manulife and its offerings, go to manulife.com.ph and following them on Facebook (facebook.com/ManulifePH), Twitter (@ManulifePH), and Instagram (@manulifeph).

March 7, 2024 by
Food, Lifestyle, News

Bulacan Factory of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation use only renewable energy

Signs partnership agreement with Ayala Group’s ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions

Ajinomoto Philippines Corp. (APC) is committed to environmental sustainability and is making progress toward completing its 2030 Roadmap. Ajinomoto Philippines Flavor Food Inc., or APF Bulacan Factory, has been operating entirely on renewable energy since December 2023, marking a new and shared milestone for APC and the Ajinomoto Group thanks to the relationship with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions, a subsidiary of the Ayala Group. Last March 1, 2024, at The Melting Pot, 35th Floor, ACEN, Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2 Paseo de Roxas cor., Makati Avenue, Makati City, a commemorative MOA signing was held to celebrate this success.

APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki, Vice President Mr. Makoto Tanabe, Director of the APF Bulacan Factory Mr. Juanito Ramos, and Chief Sustainability Officer Mr. Ernie Carlos were present for the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement. Mr. Miguel de Jesus, Chief Operating Officer of ACEN Corporation, Mr. Tony Valdez, Senior Vice President for Market Transformation, and Ms. Sheila Mina, Assistant Vice President for Commercial Operations, attended the significant occasion.

The journey for the APF Bulacan factory to run on 100% renewable energy began in 2022, with the installation of a 1MW-peak capacity Solar Rooftop in the manufacturing facility, reducing approximately 18% of its annual carbon footprint from electricity consumption. In mid 2023, APC continued to seek more avenues to mitigate its environmental footprint with ACEN RES coming into the picture, with the reputation of being one of the premier suppliers of Renewable energy in the country. Now, with this new partnership, APF Bulacan has been using only renewable energy to power its operations, a major feat for APC and the Ajinomoto Group.  

“We will relentlessly foster partnerships with organizations that share the same advocacy and goal, because we believe that by combining our efforts, we are closer to co-creating a greener and more sustainable Philippine society.” Says APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki.

As of right now, there is hope for reaching the target year on the route to finishing the APC 2030 Roadmap. One of APC’s several efforts toward environmental sustainability is the utilization of 100% renewable energy in its Bulacan factory. This suggests that further environmental-centric activities and projects may be accomplished.

March 7, 2024 by