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Fashion, Food, Lifestyle, News

20 Years of Local Craft: Padday na Lima’s Journey Toward a Sustainable Future

Cagayan Valley’s rich craftsmanship, local flavors, and entrepreneurial energy took center stage in Alabang as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 launched the 20th Padday na Lima Regional Trade Fair on August 24, 2026, at Festival Mall. Featuring over 100 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from the region’s five provinces, the milestone event gives shoppers an opportunity to explore proudly local products created with sustainability at heart.

Guided by the theme “20 Years of Vibrant Hands: Crafting a Sustainable Legacy of Culture and Community,” this year’s Padday na Lima celebrates more than just products—it highlights the people, stories, skills, and communities behind them. Visitors can discover a diverse selection of regional delicacies, handcrafted creations, fashion pieces, homegrown products, and other distinctive finds, showcasing how Cagayan Valley’s enterprises continue to promote local culture, generate opportunities, and embrace sustainable practices.

Cagayan Valley’s vibrant craftsmanship, flavors, and entrepreneurial spirit have arrived in Alabang as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 2 opened the 20th Paddayna Lima Regional Trade Fair on 24 August 2026 at Festival Mall. With more than 100 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) from the region’s five provinces, this milestone fair invites shoppers to discover products that are proudly local and thoughtfully made with sustainability in mind. Carrying the theme “20 Years of Vibrant Hands: Crafting a Sustainable Legacy of Culture and Community,” this year’s Padday na Lima goes beyond showcasing products as it celebrates the hands, stories, skills, and communities that make them possible. From regional delicacies and handcrafted pieces to fashion, home products, and other unique finds, visitors can experience the many ways Cagayan Valley’s local enterprise is creating value while keeping culture and sustainability alive.

The celebration drew distinguished guests including DTI Undersecretary Blesila A. Lantayona, Muntinlupa City Mayor Hon. Rozzano Rufino B. Biazon. Meanwhile, First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and the PLGUs of Batanes, Cagayan and Isabela conveyed their support for the trade fair. DTI Region 2 Regional Director Ma. Sofia G. Narag, CESO V, and Acting Assistant Regional Directory Atty. Michael B. Paggabao welcomed them all to the celebration along with other partners and guests.

The Padday na Lima Website 2.0 was also relaunched, giving MSMEs another avenue to bring their products to customers through digital commerce. Meanwhile, DTI Region 2 and the Department of Tourism launched Lakbay Likha: A Creative Tourism Experience, opening new possibilities for local products and craftsmanship by connecting them with the region’s tourism destinations and experiences.

The spotlight also shone on enterprises making a difference through the Padday na Lima MSME Awards, which recognized businesses demonstrating innovation and sustainability. Adding flair to the celebration, the 20th Padday na Lima Fashion Show, “Hibla’t Habi ng Rehiyon Dos: Padday na Lima Collections,” transformed local materials and traditional craftsmanship into contemporary fashion under the creative direction of Nueva Vizcaya-born designer and Region 2 Creative Icon Michael Barassi.

The opening festivities culminated in a ceremonial bamboo tapping and the launch of the Padday na Lima Song, followed by an exhibit tour that officially opened the seven-day fair to shoppers and visitors.

For two decades, Padday na Lima has connected Cagayan Valley’s local enterprises with broader markets while preserving the skills, traditions, livelihoods, and communities behind every creation. Now, everyone is invited to be part of the experience. Visit Padday na Lima at Festival Mall from August 24–30, 2026, and explore a wide range of locally made products that could become your next favorite. Take home not just a product, but a piece of Cagayan Valley’s vibrant culture and sustainable journey.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

Every Bottle Tells a Story: How a Shared Love for Coca-Cola Built a Community Across Generations

Collectors from across the Philippines celebrate the club’s 11th anniversary with Coca-Cola Philippines Senior Director for Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability, Maria Christine Ponce-Garcia | Photo Credit to Sany Chua.

Across the Philippines, independent communities of Coca-Cola collectors continue to connect through shared memorabilia, stories, and friendships built over time. These groups—formed organically by enthusiasts—reflect a broader culture of collecting that brings together people from different backgrounds through a common appreciation for the brand.

Among these communities is the Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines, one of several independent collector groups in the country. It has brought together collectors and enthusiasts who share an interest in Coca-Cola memorabilia since 2015.

What began as a space for enthusiasts has grown into a multi-generational network built on shared stories, friendships, and a lasting connection through collecting Coca-Cola items. On June 20, 2026, members gathered to mark the group’s 11th anniversary and celebrate the people who continue to shape their community.

From hobby to community

Founded by collector Jay-Ar Mendoza, the club draws members from different backgrounds and age groups—from Gen Z hobbyists to long-time enthusiasts. Like many collector communities, members trade, exchange, and showcase Coca-Cola memorabilia while organizing meetups, anniversary gatherings, and exhibits. Over the years, many have also connected with fellow collectors overseas, expanding friendships beyond the Philippines.

Edward Secerio shares a glimpse of his personal Coca-Cola collection, featuring memorabilia that highlights the brand’s enduring presence across generations.

Today, the club is led by President Edward Secerio, a member since its early days. His journey began with a single Coca-Cola alarm clock, which he picked up after closing his computer shop and looking for a new hobby. What started as a simple interest grew into a long-term passion, driven by the excitement of discovering pieces he did not yet own.

“More than anything, I want to see the club long after my time. Of course, I’ll guide it as long as I can, but what matters is that the community we’ve built remains strong and relevant. My goal is simple, it is to help shape a community that can grow and still be here for a long time, just like Coca-Cola itself,” Edward shared.

A connection beyond collecting

For some members, the connection to Coca-Cola is both professional and personal. Norman Lontoc, also a member of the Coca-Cola Collectors Club since 2015, first encountered the brand in his career as a Materials and Control Planning Analyst at Coca-Cola from 1992 to 1998. His exposure to promotional items, including miniature bottles, sparked his interest in collecting in the mid-1990s.

Over time, this interest deepened into an appreciation for Coca-Cola’s art and design—something shared by many collectors, including artists and creatives drawn to the brand’s visual identity.

For Norman, each collectible carries a story. “Every bottle has a story,” he said, reflecting on the memories tied to each piece he has acquired over the years.

Members of the Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines participate in international collector gatherings, including the Hong Kong Coke Fair 2024 and Singapore Coke Fair 2015, connecting with fellow Coca-Cola enthusiasts from around the world.

On what the club means to him after more than a decade, he added: “It means a lot, because this is where you meet new people and bring them into something shared. You build friendships, then you become part of a community grounded in a common interest. You start to value these kinds of connections and the memories you make with it more as you grow older.”

Connecting generations through collecting

Tatay Dong and Nanay Tess, among the club’s pioneer members, share their vintage Coca-Cola memorabilia with fellow and enthusiasts.

One of the things that makes collecting unique is how it connects generations. Across different communities, longtime collectors share stories and experiences alongside younger enthusiasts who are discovering the hobby for themselves.

Within the Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines, pioneer members Tatay Dong and Nanay Tess have turned collecting into a shared family activity, even involving their youngest daughter in fairs and exhibits. Their collection includes vintage Coca-Cola items dating back to the 1940s, which they regularly showcase in mall displays and collector events.

The club welcomes its newest members during the Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines’ 11th anniversary celebration.

Ms. Angie, now 77 years old, represents another layer of the collecting community. Although she only recently joined the club, her collecting journey began in the 1970s. She has welcomed fellow collectors into her home to view her collection—a practice common across collector circles, where enthusiasts visit one another, exchange items, and learn from shared experiences.

At the same tim, a new generation is finding its place in the community. Among them is Papi Louie, a toy collector and content creator who documents his collecting journey online. Like many younger collectors today, Louie first entered the hobby through  “anik-anik” culture and online collector communities before expanding into Coca-Cola memorabilia.

“As a new member, I’m excited to learn more about Coca-Cola memorabilia, discover new pieces, and build friendships with fellow collectors. As a content creator, I’m also looking forward to sharing these experiences with a wider audience and hopefully inspiring more people to appreciate the stories, history, and community behind collecting,” Louie shared.

A shared culture of collecting

The Coca-Cola Collectors Club 11th anniversary was a celebration of the broader collecting culture—where enthusiasts come together to celebrate a shared interest and the connections that come with it. Representatives from Coca-Cola Philippines also attended the event as guests, including Sr. Director of Public Affairs, Sustainability & Communications Christine Ponce-Garcia, who met with attendees and recognized the passion shared across the collecting community.

“It’s meaningful to see how collecting continues to bring people together across generations. Behind every bottle, every collection are personal stories, friendships and memories that reflect the many ways Coca-Cola has been present of their everyday life over time,” said Ponce-Garcia.

Across the country, independent Coca-Cola collector communities continue to bring together people from different walks of life. More than collections of items, they reflect how shared interests can create meaningful connections—linking generations through stories, experiences, and a collective appreciation that continues to evolve over time.

To learn more about Coca-Cola Philippines and its community, visit www.coca-cola.com/ph/en.

The Coca-Cola Collectors Club Philippines is an independent fan community. It is not owned, operated, or officially endorsed by Coca-Cola Philippines.

 

 

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

New Tables to Try, New Corners to Discover at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

Your saved list is about to get longer! 🙈

This month, SM Supermalls is bringing even more reasons to plan that next mall trip across Mindanao. Think new cafés, fresh dining spots, and exciting brands making their debut! Here’s a quick roundup of the latest openings you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get into the newest arrivals, shall we?

 

 

  • DJI ARS (Authorized Retail Store)

Take your content creation to new heights at CDO’s first ever DJI ARS, now open at Level 3, Cyberzone, at SM CDO Downtown. Explore DJI’s latest lineup of drones, action cameras, handheld gimbals, and creative imaging gear, with expert guidance to help you find the right setup, whether you’re a beginner, traveler, or seasoned creator.

  • Zus Coffee

Coffee lovers in Davao have something new to look forward to as Zus Coffee is soon to open their first-ever Mindanao branch at SM City Davao this September! A new great spot for your daily caffeine fix, quick breaks, or catch-ups with friends. Drop by soon at SM City Davao and be among the first in Mindanao to experience Zus!

● Abba’s Rest & Cafe

Need a place to slow down for a while? Abba’s Rest & Cafe, soon to open at SM CDO Downtown, offers a warm and welcoming space to enjoy comforting food, freshly prepared drinks, and meaningful conversations. Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or meeting up with loved ones, it’s a cozy stop worth adding to your list.

● Fat Chef Restaurant

Good food has a way of bringing everyone together, and Fat Chef Restaurant is all about generous servings and comforting flavors! Soon to open in SM CDO Downtown, it’s a great spot for casual lunches, family dinners, and celebrations with friends over satisfying meals.

● Miniso Land

A whole new way to experience MINISO is soon to arrive in the Philippines! Miniso Land, soon to open at SM Lanang, marks its first-ever branch in the country. Beyond your favorite collectibles, plushies, beauty finds, and everyday essentials, the expanded concept offers immersive themed spaces and an even bigger selection of products, making every visit feel like an adventure for fans of all ages.

Every visit to the mall brings the possibility of discovering something you’ll want to recommend to friends or return to with family. From new dining destinations to exciting lifestyle concepts, SM Supermalls continues to create spaces where everyday moments become memorable experiences – and that’s why this is My SM.

Check out these latest openings and see what’s new at SM Supermalls.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit www.smsupermalls.com for updates.

 

 

Food

A Guide to the Latest Stores and Dining Spots at SM Supermalls in Mindanao

No two trips to the mall are ever quite alike. Some days are perfect for grabbing a coffee, while others call for a shopping spree or indulging in a favorite meal.

This July, SM Supermalls is bringing even more experiences to Mindanao with a fresh lineup of dining destinations and lifestyle brands. From first-in-SM concepts to exciting new establishments, there’s something new to discover no matter what brings you to the mall.

Here’s a look at what’s new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls!

  • Gashapon Bandai

A new world of surprises awaits at Level 3 of SM CDO Downtown with Gashapon Bandai. From beloved anime characters to adorable mini collectibles, every capsule offers the thrill of not knowing exactly what you’ll get next.

  • Comma Café

Take a pause and enjoy thoughtfully crafted drinks and café favorites at Comma Café, soon to open at the Level 2 of SM Lanang. As the first branch in SM, it’s an inviting spot for casual catch-ups, quiet afternoons, and everything in between!

  • Yappari

Yappari is now open on the Lower Ground Level of SM City Zamboanga, bringing its signature lava stone steak experience to Zamboanga for the very first time. Enjoy premium cuts served on sizzling hot stones, so you can cook every bite to your preferred doneness while savoring every flavorful moment.

  • Tong Yang

Tong Yang has officially arrived on Level 3 of SM City Zamboanga, marking its first branch in Zamboanga. Known for its all-you-can-eat hot pot and grill concept, it’s the perfect spot to gather with family and friends over fresh meats, seafood, vegetables, and flavorful broths for a fun, interactive dining experience.

Daily routines are always changing, and the places we turn to for everyday needs are evolving with them. From cozy dining spots to fashion and lifestyle destinations, SM Supermalls continues to bring beloved brands, choices, and experiences closer to local communities.

Discover the latest openings and see what’s new at your most-loved mall, SM Supermalls.

Follow @smsupermalls on social media or visit the SM Supermalls website www.smsupermalls.com for the latest updates.

 

Automotive, Food

Ride Home on a Honda NAVi with Dunkin’ Goodies!

Honda Philippines, Inc. and Golden Donuts, Inc. ‘’Dunkin’’ come together to celebrate every new Honda NAVi purchase with a special pasalubong to share

Owning a motorcycle is a meaningful achievement, and for many Filipinos, every milestone is best celebrated with pasalubong. To make the experience even sweeter, Honda Philippines, Inc. (HPI), one of the country’s leading motorcycle manufacturers, has partnered with Dunkin’ to reward new Honda NAVi owners with a special treat to share with loved ones.

From July 27 to October 27, 2026, customers who buy any Honda NAVi color variant from participating Honda Exclusive Shops nationwide will receive a Dunkin’ Product Voucher. The voucher can be redeemed for a limited-edition Honda x Dunkin’ box filled with eight Classic Donuts, giving riders a tasty way to mark their new purchase and bring home something the whole family can enjoy.

Ride Away with The Honda NAVi

The celebration doesn’t end after bringing home a new motorcycle. The Honda NAVi is designed to make every ride just as enjoyable, whether it’s your daily commute, a quick coffee run, or a spontaneous weekend trip. Blending the convenience of its automatic transmission engine with different characters that will fit on younger generation personas, the Honda NAVi is built for easy and effortless mobility every day.

With its lightweight handling, fuel-efficient Honda Eco Technology (HET) engine, spacious utility compartment, and five vibrant color options—Neon Pink R, Patriot Red, Shasta White, Ranger Green R, and Black—the Honda NAVi lets riders express their personality and Be Who You WANNAVi.

Customers can claim their Honda x Dunkin’ box at participating Dunkin’ branches nationwide by presenting the original voucher anytime from July 27 to December 27, 2026. It’s a fun way to mark the occasion of a new motorcycle purchase while sharing a sweet treat with family and friends.

More exciting rewards are on the way, as Honda and Dunkin’ continue their partnership to deliver special promotions and memorable experiences that make every ride even more enjoyable.

For more details about Honda products, visit www.hondaph.com. You can also stay informed about the latest product launches and promotions by following Honda Philippines, Inc. on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok. For inquiries, call (02) 8581-6700 to 6799 or 0917-884-6632.

 

Food

BURGER KING® Launches BK KRISPPER™ Fried Chicken with Its Signature Smoky Flavor

Known for flame-grilled burgers, Burger King brings its signature bold flavor to one of the country’s biggest food categories with the nationwide launch of BK Krispper.

Burger King has long been recognized for its signature smoky, flame-grilled burgers—a distinct flavor that turned the Whopper® into an iconic favorite and helped define the brand. Building on that legacy, Burger King is bringing its signature smoky taste to one of the country’s most loved comfort foods with the nationwide debut of BK Krispper™, the brand’s first fried chicken infused with its unmistakable smoky flavor.

BK Krispper™, Burger King’s latest fried chicken offering, combines the crispy coating and juicy, tender meat that Filipino diners consistently look for. Based on Unilever Food Solutions’ 2022 consumer insights, these qualities remain among the top preferences when it comes to fried chicken. Alongside these well-loved features, BK Krispper™ introduces Burger King’s signature smoky flavor, inspired by its flame-grilled heritage, offering a fresh take on a classic favorite.

Burger King has created a fried chicken that stays true to what the brand does best. The smoky finish complements the crispy coating and juicy chicken, delivering a satisfying bite that stands out in a category where many options taste ‘usually good’.

“With BK Krispper™, we wanted to raise the bar on fried chicken and do it in a way that’s unmistakably Burger King,” said Kristine Wong, Assistant Vice President and Head of Marketing at Burger King Philippines. “People already expect fried chicken to be crispy and juicy. What makes BK Krispper™ different is that signature smoky, flame-grilled taste baked into every bite – a product that’s true to our heritage and gives consumers a whole new reason to choose Burger King.”

Whether you’re a loyal Burger King customer or searching for a new fried chicken go-to, BK Krispper™ offers the crispy skin and juicy, tender meat that many Filipinos enjoy, enhanced by Burger King’s signature smoky flavor for a taste that’s uniquely its own.

BK Krispper™ is now available at Burger King branches nationwide, inviting customers across the country to experience its distinct combination of crispiness, juiciness, and smoky goodness. For the latest updates and announcements, follow @burgerkingph on Instagram.

 

 

Food

Celebrate National Fried Chicken Day the BK Way with 2 BK Krispper® for Only ₱149

Marking its first National Fried Chicken Day celebration, Burger King invites more Filipinos to discover its crave-worthy take on fried chicken with a one-day offer of 2 BK Krispper Meals for only ₱149.

As National Fried Chicken Day continues to rank among the country’s most anticipated food occasions, Burger King® is making its debut in the celebration by introducing its own take on the beloved classic through the BK Krispper.

BK Krispper™ is now served in 108 Burger King stores across Luzon, bringing the brand’s unique take on fried chicken to more Filipinos. While Burger King is renowned for its flame-grilled Whoppers, BK Krispper™ delivers the same bold taste and quality in a crispy chicken offering that’s uniquely Burger King.

BK Krispper delivers everything fried chicken lovers look for: crispy outside, juicy inside, with a signature smoky finish that’s distinctly Burger King. Whether you’re a loyal Burger King fan or simply looking to switch up your usual fried chicken order, BK Krispper offers a crave-worthy alternative to break away from the usual fried chicken routine.

“When people think of Burger King, burgers naturally come to mind first. But with BK Krispper with it’s distinct Smoky flavor in a Fried Chicken, now available in more stores across Luzon, National Fried Chicken Day felt like the perfect opportunity to invite more Filipinos to discover our own take on fried chicken,” said Kristine Wong, Assistant Vice President and Head of Marketing at Burger King Philippines. “BK Krispper delivers the bold, crave-worthy flavors people expect from Burger King, just in a different way, and we’re excited for more guests to finally experience it.”

To mark the occasion, Burger King is inviting guests to experience BK Krispper through a one-day-only offer. On July 6, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, guests can enjoy 2 BK Krispper Meals–each complete with 1-piece BK Krispper, rice, and a regular Coca-Cola– for only ₱149 at 108 participating BK Krispper stores across Luzon, available for Dine-In, Takeaway, and Drive-Thru.

This National Fried Chicken Day, head to Burger King and make BK Krispper™ part of your celebration. Visit participating stores on July 6 to experience Burger King’s signature take on fried chicken.

Can’t make it on the day? No worries—BK Krispper™ is available anytime at participating Burger King® stores across Luzon for just ₱99 with a drink, so you can enjoy the crispy goodness whenever the craving strikes.

 

 

 

Food

Minute Maid Nutri+ Brings a Refreshing Start to Young Filipinos’ Mornings

You wake up, check your phone, head to work or school, reply to messages over lunch, and find yourself scrolling again before the day is over. If that routine feels familiar, you’re in good company. For many Filipinos—especially students, young professionals, and creatives juggling busy schedules—the start of the day doesn’t always bring a sense of renewal. More often, it begins with a lingering feeling of sluggishness.

It’s what many describe as the “morning meh”—that hazy, low-energy state that sets in before the day truly gets going. It can follow you through your commute, linger over breakfast, or show up during a lunch break that’s anything but restful. It’s not burnout or a major setback, but that subtle sense of fatigue can quietly influence your mood, focus, and momentum for the rest of the day.

Small resets, big shifts

Here’s the thing: you don’t need a dramatic life overhaul to shake off the meh. Small intentional moments, whether it’s a song that actually slaps on the commute, a hearty meal eaten without a screen, or a sip of something cold and citrusy, can gently tip the mood in a better direction.

Think of it as zest as a mindset, not just a flavor. These micro-resets may not solve everything, but they help pull you out of autopilot, even for a minute. And sometimes, a minute is enough to turn the day around.

A fresh take on daily resets

Minute Maid Nutri+ is leaning into this moment with a refreshed look and a new Pineapple Orange flavor that hits just right. Bright, fruity, and made for the in-between moments of your day, it’s packed with 200% Vitamin C and Fiber, so every sip does a little more than just taste good. No hype, no crash. Just a refreshing reset that helps you feel more refreshed and a little more alive in your day.

For Pia, a 24-year-old graphic designer in Mandaluyong, mornings used to be a blur of rushed coffee and unread notifications. “I started keeping a Minute Maid Nutri+ in my bag. It sounds small, but taking a sip of it during my commute actually makes me feel like the day is starting,” she said.

A college student from Cebu named Marco puts it simply: “When ideas run dry, I take a break, step out, grab something cold. The Pineapple Orange flavor is the reset button I didn’t know I needed.”

Make the time for the zest moment

Whether you’re easing into the morning, squeezing in a quick lunch break, or taking a brief pause between tasks, every moment is an opportunity for a refreshing reset. Minute Maid Nutri+ is the perfect fruity companion, bringing a burst of flavor that makes even the simplest breaks feel a little more enjoyable.

Feel the Zest with Minute Maid Nutri+!

 

 

 

Food, Lifestyle

Coca-Cola Philippines Highlights EPR Implementation at ASEAN-EU Summit in Cebu

[L-R] Rob Kaplan, Founder and CEO of Circulate Capital; Hon. Jonas Leones, Undersecretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR); Antonio “Tony” Del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines; Dr. René van Berkel, Co-Convenor of the ASEAN Circular Economy Business Alliance; and Chris Humphrey, Executive Director of the EU-ASEAN Business Council, during the panel discussion at the summit.

Government officials, business executives, and development partners recently gathered in Cebu for the ASEAN-EU Sustainability Summit 2026, a regional forum dedicated to exploring practical solutions to Southeast Asia’s environmental and economic challenges.

Organized by the EU-ASEAN Business Council (EU-ABC) and the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines (ECCP) in support of the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship, the summit brought together representatives from the public and private sectors to exchange insights on policy coordination, implementation strategies, and creating an enabling environment for sustainable investments.

Throughout the summit, speakers stressed that the success of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) initiatives relies on consistent implementation, supportive investment policies, political stability, cross-border collaboration, and knowledge exchange—particularly as ASEAN countries vary in the maturity of their waste management and recycling infrastructure.

As a total beverage company, Coca-Cola shared several considerations for effective EPR systems and to maximize compliance models, including: clear and enforceable regulatory EPR system design; alignment with local collection and recycling infrastructure;  inclusion of informal waste workers within recycling value chain and recovery systems; and stronger incentives that support recycled material use and infrastructure investment across the region.

Antonio “Tony” Del Rosario, president of Coca-Cola Philippines, joined fellow panelists from government, ASEAN institutions, and civil society to discuss implementation challenges and lessons from early-stage EPR markets.

Antonio “Tony” Del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines, shares Coca-Cola’s perspectives on effective EPR implementation.

“EPR systems work best when design, enforcement, and on-the-ground realities are aligned,” Del Rosario said. “That requires coordination across government, industry, and waste management stakeholders.”

Discussions throughout the summit similarly underscored that successful EPR systems require coordinated action across governments, businesses, financial institutions, waste management stakeholders, and communities. Speakers also highlighted the importance of ensuring that frameworks remain practical and locally relevant, recognizing the differing levels of infrastructure and market maturity across ASEAN economies.

Coca-Cola Philippines referenced examples from its local experience supporting collection and recycling efforts locally. These include Tapon to Ipon, a collection initiative now operating through more than 6,000 community drop-off points nationwide, and partnerships focused on waste recovery and recycling infrastructure. The company also noted the role of its philanthropic arm, the Coca-Cola Foundation Philippines, in supporting programs that engage informal waste workers in the recycling value chain.

The company also cited PETValue Philippines, the country’s first bottle-to-bottle PET recycling facility established through a joint venture between Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines and Indorama Ventures, as an example of private sector investment contributing to domestic recycling capacity.

Speakers across the summit emphasized that EPR outcomes depend on consistent implementation, investment-enabling policies, political stability, knowledge-sharing and collaboration across markets, particularly given differences in infrastructure maturity across ASEAN economies.

Coca-Cola Philippines reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with government agencies, industry stakeholders, and community partners as EPR policies continue to develop across the region.

To learn more about the company’s sustainability efforts, visit the Coca-Cola Philippines Sustainability platform.

Learn more at Coca-Cola Philippines and follow Coca-Cola Philippines on social media.

 

Food

Bounty marks 40 years of growth, reaffirms commitment to food security

In the photo from left: Atty. Kenneth G. Cheng, CEO of Bounty Fresh Group Holdings, Inc. & President of Fresh Group; Mr. Rodolfo Abelardo Ablazo, General Manager of Commercial Feeds Agribusiness Group, Architect Edwin Chen, Presient of Branded and Value-Added Group, and Mr. James Benedict Carreon, President of Restaurant Group.

As Bounty marks its 40th year of operations, the agribusiness company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s food security and self-sufficiency efforts.

The message was highlighted by Atty. Kenneth Cheng, CEO of Bounty Fresh Group Holdings, Inc. and President of Fresh Group, during the company’s anniversary celebration held on June 25 at Marquis Events Place in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

Seeing Bounty reach this remarkable 40-year milestone is truly inspiring. I’m happy to witness the company’s continued success and its commitment to making a meaningful impact on food security and the lives of Filipino communities.

It was attended by key executives from Bounty, media partners, and industry experts. The event also served as a platform for company officials to share insights on the agricultural sector and food security in the country, reflect on Bounty’s journey, and discuss what’s next.

Atty. Kenneth G. Cheng

“For four decades, Filipinos have given Bounty a place on their tables, and the biggest way we can pay back their trust is by strengthening the country’s food security. We’re committed to safeguarding food security for all Filipinos through agricultural production and leadership,” Cheng said.

In 2022, the Philippines ranked 67th out of 113 countries in the Global Food Security Index report. Four years later, the country faces the same challenge, with the Department of Social Welfare and Development now pushing to promote food security through regional cooperation.

To address this, Bounty aims to further strengthen local agricultural production to help the country become self-sufficient in food. The company works hand-in-hand with Filipino farmers, equipping them with tools, technological backing and training, as well as providing market access necessary to thrive in a competitive landscape.

These efforts help guarantee fresh, safe food for the country while actively building a stronger, more sustainable Philippine poultry industry.

Mr. Rodolfo Abelardo Ablazo

“We want the whole agricultural sector to thrive together, so we empower thousands of entrepreneurs across the country and help farmers and livestock raisers succeed by providing advanced nutrition, technology, and technical support that improve animal health, productivity, and profitability,” said Mr. Rodolfo Abelardo “Polo” Ablazo, general manager of the Commercial Feeds – Agribusiness Group. “When our partners succeed, they help strengthen food security, create jobs in their communities, and ensure Filipino families continue to have access to safe, high-quality, and affordable food.”

Food made better

Bounty traces its humble beginnings back to Santa Maria, Bulacan as a single-layer farm with 5,000 chickens. Over the years, it invested in grandparent farms, parent stock farms, hatcheries, dressing plants, feed mills, and cool-cell broiler complexes to ensure all its products are safe and of the highest quality.

By 2023, the company transitioned from multiple companies under Bounty into One Bounty with four main groups: Bounty Fresh Group, Agribusiness Group, Branded & Value-Added Group, and Restaurant Group, each with a different focus of operations in Bounty. This shift aimed to centralize strategic vision, allowing seamless collaboration and maximizing the collective value delivered to partners and customers. Ultimately, this integration strengthened the overall ecosystem of the company.

Today, the company continues to grow with more than 2,200 takeout stores nationwide under the country’s leading takeaway brands, Chooks-to-Go and Uling Roasters.

Mr. James Benedict Carreon

“For 40 years, Filipinos have trusted and allowed us to be part of their meals, so we share our success with everyone who welcomed us to their tables. We will continue to provide comfort food that makes every moment better,” said James Benedict Carreon, president of Restaurant Group.

Architect Edwin Go Chen

“Our diverse portfolio of convenient, high-quality, and nutritious products is what makes Bounty a household fixture daily. We will continue to push the boundaries of food innovation, staying true to our commitment to ‘food made better,’” added Arch. Edwin Chen, president of Branded & Value-Added Group.

Through its integrated efforts across the agricultural value chain, from livestock production to food distribution, Bounty continues to strengthen its position as a key contributor to the Philippine agriculture industry. As it marks four decades of growth, the company remains committed to driving innovation and fostering partnerships that will help build a more food-secure future for the nation.