Food

13,000 metric tons of plastic recovered in 2024 alone

PCPPI Plant

In 2024, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI) recovered 13,000 metric tons of plastic waste through its ongoing partnership with Plastic Bank, an international social fintech with a global bottle deposit program, setting a new standard for sustainability in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.

In addition to guaranteeing adherence to the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Law, which mandates that businesses recover a portion of the amount of plastic they produce, the program educated local communities, empowered waste collectors, and established PCPPI as one of the nation’s most progressive businesses in terms of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) leadership practices.

“Plastic Bank partnered with us into thinking beyond compliance. We transformed sustainability into a company-wide mindset that involves every employee, partner, and community we touch,” said Atty. Carina Bayon, Chief ESG Officer of PCPPI. “This has created real, measurable value across our business and the communities we serve.”

Since launching the partnership in 2022, PCPPI has been funding the recovery of plastic equivalent to its entire annual footprint in the Philippines, covering key areas like Cebu, Pampanga, Davao, and Muntinlupa. This is after Plastic Bank gave PCPPI access to a scalable plastic recovery infrastructure aligned with the country’s evolving environmental policies.

But the effort goes beyond waste collection. It supports local recycling ecosystems, improves livelihoods of waste collectors, and strengthens grassroots partnerships with local government units (LGUs) through projects like Adopt-a-River and community-based material recovery initiatives.

“PCPPI’s corporate responsibility goes beyond compliance and leads by example in uplifting communities across the Philippines while preventing plastic from polluting the environment,” said David Katz, Founder and CEO of Plastic Bank. “Together, we’re proving that solving the plastic crisis is possible when companies lead with purpose and create prosperity for the people and the planet.”

From Bottling Beverages to Bottling Change

PCPPI’s sustainability model doesn’t end at recovery. “It aims to empower,” Atty. Carina Bayon added.

The company’s workforce has been mobilized as ESG champions through internal campaigns, bottle collection drives, and learning sessions with Plastic Bank.

With the appointment of its first Chief ESG Officer in 2023, PCPPI unified its sustainability, compliance, legal, and people strategies into one forward-thinking framework. This alignment has led to faster, more impactful decisions and solidified the company’s leadership in the ESG space.

Additionally, PCPPI’s dedication to sustainability is improving its reputation. The business gained recognition at international ESG events in Singapore and Jakarta, which increased it’s appeal to partners and investors who prioritize sustainability.

“The company’s transparency and consistency in passing EPR audits are also building consumer trust in a landscape where environmental credibility is increasingly non-negotiable,” said Atty. Carina Bayon. “By embedding ESG into our core strategy, PCPPI has proven that environmental responsibility is not just good business, it is good citizenship, for the common good.”

Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony Del Rosario, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines Unit Director Gus Gatuslao, and Lift ambassador Ruru Madrid lead the high-energy launch of Lift in Bacolod.

To inspire today’s generation of achievers, Coca-Cola Philippines has introduced Lift, their newest energizing beverage that is enhanced with caffeine, zinc, and vitamin B3. The new drink, which is currently available in Western Visayas, is meant to encourage customers to break away from routine and embrace life with boldness with its brilliant citrus taste and empowering appeal to Go Lift Mode.

Coca-Cola Philippines hosted a lively event called “UNDO THE USUAL, LIFT MODE NA ‘YAN: Epic Unveiling” at the Bacolod City New Government Center (NGC) on August 9, 2025, to commemorate the introduction. The ceremony launched Lift’s objective to energize communities throughout Western Visayas and recognized the brand’s entrance.

As Coca-Cola Philippines continues its mission to Refresh the World and Make a Difference, Lift serves as a vibrant call to action for consumers to break from routine and embrace their boldest, most energized selves. The brand invites everyone to Go Lift Mode and show up with confidence and choose to stand out.

The launch campaign built momentum across Bacolod with branded Lift crates placed in iconic locations like Bacolod Plaza and CityMall Parola in Iloilo. These teasers sparked curiosity and conversation, setting the stage for the Lift Recorida Caravan from August 7 to 9. The caravan energized key spots in Bacolod and Iloilo with on-ground sampling, street performances, and social media buzz — culminating in the dramatic crate delivery to the NGC for the main event.

Attendees went on full “Lift mode” by joining high-energy challenges and exploring interactive booths for a chance to win exclusive prizes

At the heart of the launch was the Epic Unboxing, where the crowd witnessed the reveal of the new Lift. Thousands gathered for an afternoon of bold flavors and immersive experiences. The venue featured live performances and Lift-themed booths such as the Lift Bar, a Crate Maze, and an interactive Trick Art Wall. These installations encouraged attendees to explore, taste, and share their Lift experience online.

Ruru Madrid, Lift’s official ambassador, brought energy and excitement to the event, as he celebrated with fans and joined the launch festivities.

The brand’s official endorser Ruru Madrid made a special appearance to meet fans and followers of the Lift Philippines Facebook page, energizing the crowd and bringing the brand’s bold and vibrant spirit to life throughout the event.

The event drew in thousands of  active consumers across Bacolod and nearby provinces, signaling a strong return for the brand. The excitement extended to the online space, with high engagement on social media and conversations about Lift’s invigorating flavor and feel.

“We’re thrilled by the energy and excitement from Bacolod and the entire Western Visayas,” said Tony Del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines. “The new Lift we’re introducing today offers that great taste — and more. It’s a bold, citrus-flavored drink charged with Vitamin B3, Zinc, and Caffeine, made for today’s youth who switch between multiple modes in a day. It carries a powerful message that dares you to switch — to choose something different, break the routine, and power through with confidence.”  

The crowd came together to mark the launch, savoring its bold and energizing taste.

Lift is now available to customers in Western Visayas at sari-sari stores and affiliated merchants. As Lift spreads its audacious message: Undo the Usual, further regional rollouts, pop-ups, and promotions are planned. Select Lift Mode.

Visit Lift’s official Facebook site at https://web.facebook.com/people/Lift-Philippines/61578806605159/ to find out more about the organization and its forthcoming events.

Learn more at www.coca-cola.com/ph/ and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Goodday Friz ushers in a bold new era of healthy soda in the Philippines with a record-breaking launch

(Center) Lance Gokongwei, President and CEO of JG Summit Holdings, Inc., and Asahi South, Central and Southeast Asia Group CEO Erwin Selvarajah hold the Guinness World Record certificate for Goodday Friz, which broke the record for the largest carbonated beverage party with 766 participants.

It had a bubbly quality. It tasted good. Friztory was about to happen.

A GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™-breaking launch marked the official debut of the carbonated cultured milk beverage Goodday Friz. 766 Filipinos attended the event, which broke the previous record for the largest carbonated beverage party in history.

Guinness World Record for ‘The Largest Carbonated Beverage Party” achieved by Goodday Friz

The event, appropriately named “Making Friztory,” took place on July 30, 2025, at the Blue Leaf Cosmopolitan in Bridgetowne, Quezon City, and was an insanely wonderful blend of pop, fizz, and joy. The gathering formally won the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDSTM for the Largest Carbonated Beverage Party when they hoisted their cans of Goodday Friz in a huge, coordinated toast. In beverage history, the once-in-a-lifetime celebration was a momentous occasion.

Me at the event

Being part of “Making Friztory” was more than just joining a fun event—it felt like witnessing history fizz to life. Seeing 766 people come together, raising their cans of Goodday Friz in perfect sync, gave me a real sense of unity, energy, and pride. It wasn’t just about breaking a world record—it was about celebrating Filipino spirit, creativity, and how even something as simple as a drink can bring people together for a record-breaking moment we’ll never forget. Definitely a fizzy and flavorful memory to keep!

(L-R) Lance Gokongwei, President and CEO of JG Summit Holdings, Inc., Caycee Dolan, GWR Rep, and Asahi South, Central and Southeast Asia Group CEO Erwin Selvarajah holding the Guinness World Record certificate, marking Goodday Friz’s “Friztory”-making moment.

Also present at the Goodday Friz launch were industry leaders Lance Gokongwei, President and CEO of JG Summit Holdings, Inc, and Asahi South, Central and Southeast Asia Group CEO Erwin Selvarajah, marking the beginning of an exciting collaboration that redefines the beverage landscape in the Philippines.

A Healthier Fizz for a New Generation

Goodday Friz combines the zesty sparkle of soda with the creamy tang of cultured milk, fortified with Lac-Shield™ paraprobiotics to support immunity while delivering a crazy good taste. It is soda reimagined for Filipinos who are conscious of their food choices.

“Goodday Friz isn’t just your regular soda, it’s a new kind of refreshing and flavorful carbonated drink with a unique twist because it’s made with cultured milk,” said Oscar Villamora Jr., URC Managing Director for Beverages. “We want to offer an innovative drink, and what better way to launch our newest Goodday product than by celebrating with our consumers during this exciting history-making event.”

P-pop group and Goodday Friz ambassadors CLOUD 7, electrified the launch event with their songs and dance moves.

Joining the excitement was rising P-pop sensation CLOUD 7 who was introduced as Goodday’s first-ever brand ambassador. Their dynamic live performance electrified the crowd during the record-breaking event. CLOUD 7 also did a fun dance cover of “Soda Pop” to celebrate the occasion.

“We’re thrilled to enter the Philippine soda space with a product that offers both fizz and function,” said Hemalatha Ragavan, CEO of Asahi Southeast Asia and Exports (Multi-Bev). “Goodday Friz delivers a refreshing taste with a health boost. It’s perfect for today’s on-the-go, wellness-minded consumers.”

The record-breaking crowd of 766 Goodday Friz enjoyers, alongside members of Cloud 7, raised their cans of Goodday Friz during the historic attempt.

The fun didn’t stop as guests were treated to Goodday Friz-themed activities, including “Friz Fill-Up Frenzy,” where players caught fizzy bubbles, cultured milk, and oranges to fill a virtual can, and “Friz Fuzed,” a puzzle challenge to unlock the perfect path to Friz.

Goodday Friz comes in two delicious flavors, Orange and Original. Both are low in calories and include paraprobiotics to help strengthen immunity. Whether you’re hanging out with your friends or relaxing alone, Goodday Friz is designed to revitalize your mood and refresh your taste buds by fusing the spicy fizz of soda with the smooth creaminess of cultured milk.

Goodday Friz, which is currently available all around the country, welcomes everyone to enjoy this delicious combination of taste and functionality.

• New episode of locally made Youtube Series makes understanding climate change easier for kids and families
• 4^thEpisode of environmental series shares song from an unlikely villain  

The fourth episode of the well-liked animated YouTube miniseries Miming and Friends has been released, carrying on the tradition of teaching kids and families about environmental sustainability through animated characters and music.

Mondelēz International in the Philippines and Ramon del Prado and Meryll Yan, a husband-wife team, collaborated to create the Miming and Friends YouTube channel, which features local animation material. Through entertaining and instructive content, the series aims to promote sustainable snacking and appropriate trash management techniques. Save Philippine Seas (SPS), a nonprofit organization devoted to protecting marine and coastal resources for group action and behavior change, is partnered with the latter.

The latest episode tackles the pressing issue of waste mismanagement and its relationship with climate change, bringing the characters together to learn about greenhouse gases and their impact on the world. “Episode 4 touches into the critical topic of climate change,” said Miming and Friends co-creator, Meryll Yan. “We believe that by understanding the causes and effects of greenhouse gases, we can empower the next generation to become proactive environmental stewards.”

The episode also introduces a new character – one who has a lot to say about greenhouse gas emissions and where they come from. Named Ghregoryo, the character is painted as a villain and has a very compelling song in the episode, which hopefully shines a light on the importance of individual actions.

“This episode dives into how our choices can affect the ocean and our climate in many unexpected ways,” explained Anna Oposa, Chief Mermaid and Executive Director of SPS. “We hope to help the youth connect their everyday actions like energy consumption or accumulating too much waste to the larger issue of greenhouse gases and the urgent need for responsible stewardship.”

“This newest adventure on greenhouse gases reminds us that building a sustainable future is a shared responsibility, and that everyone has a role to play,” shared Caitlin Punzalan, Corporate and Government Affairs Lead at Mondelēz International in the Philippines. “We are proud to engage with communities across the Philippines and inspire collective action towards a healthier planet.”

Since the release of Episode 3 in 2024, the channel has experienced consistent growth, climbing to over 42,800 total subscribers. This surge in viewership and engagement reflects the series’ ability to resonate with kiddie and family audiences and its effectiveness in delivering important messages about environmental stewardship.

Mondelēz International has been instrumental in supporting the series, aligning with their commitment to sustainability and waste management. Through the adventures of anthropomorphic cat-fish Miming and her friends, the series aims to inspire young viewers to take action and make a positive impact on the environment.

“At Mondelēz International, we believe that #SustainableSnacking starts at home,” adds Punzalan. “Miming and Friends provides a creative platform for reaching the right audiences with engaging content that inspires real and sustainable change. Sustainability can sometimes seem complex, especially for children. We want to help break down these concepts to show how our daily actions can have a positive impact.”

Beyond the series’ success, Mondelēz International also accomplished significant sustainability milestones, such as earning the Plastic Cleanup Partner seal from the Plastic Credit Exchange (PCX), which acknowledges the company’s efforts to meet and surpass the Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) law’s requirement to collect post-consumer plastic packaging. The company makes sure that the equal weight of the plastic packaging it uses for its snack products is diverted through recycling and other methods to prevent it from ending up in a landfill or as marine litter by partnering with waste diverters.

Use this link to view the most recent episode of Miming and Friends: https://youtu.be/0iGoRQU_yGY?feature=shared

Visit www.mondelezinternational.com or follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MDLZ. Also visit https://ph.mondelezinternational.com/home

On Monday, July 1, 2025, SM Supermalls and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA) signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the SM Supermalls headquarters in Pasay City, thereby establishing a strategic alliance. Through the SM Weekend Market, a venue devoted to exhibiting regional goods, indigenous talent, and Filipino entrepreneurship, the partnership initiates a collaborative endeavor to strengthen Filipino cooperatives by providing them with access to busy mall areas.

L-R: Royston A. Cabunag, Assistant Vice President and Lead for MSME and Job Fairs, Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls formalized partnership through a MOA signing with CDA Chairperson Usec. Alexander B. Raquepo and CDA Administrator Asec. Santiago S. Lim, that aims to empower Filipino cooperatives through the SM Weekend Market initiative.

The MOA was signed by Undersecretary Alexander B. Raquepo, CDA Chairperson, and Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations of SM Supermalls, in the presence of key officials from both institutions. “This is a historic partnership between the private and public sectors,” said Usec. Raquepo during his remarks. “We take great pride in this collaboration with SM Supermalls, which represents a powerful step forward in uplifting our micro, small and medium cooperative entrepreneurs. This model partnership will not only provide access to markets, but help elevate the economic well-being of our communities.”

Fresh, proudly Filipino produce takes the spotlight supporting local farmers and cooperatives at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Calamba.

Shoppers enjoy direct access to farm-fresh produce at the SM Weekend Market where farmers are given dedicated selling spaces in select SM Supermalls.

Local farmers showcase and sell their fresh harvest to shoppers at the SM Weekend Market, a platform by SM Supermalls that connects producers directly to consumers in high-traffic mall locations.

Under the agreement, CDA will endorse eligible cooperatives across the country to participate in the SM Weekend Market. In turn, SM Supermalls will make space available in key mall locations for a minimal fee—intended only to help cover maintenance costs. “The SM Weekend Market was born out of a simple but powerful idea — to give farmers and local producers, especially those in cooperatives, the chance to bring their goods closer to the people, in places they wouldn’t normally have access to,” said Engr. Junias M. Eusebio, Vice President for Mall Operations at SM Supermalls. “With CDA as our partner, we are excited to open more doors and more mall spaces to co-ops across the country. This partnership will allow more communities to thrive, more stories to be told, and more Filipino-made products to be celebrated.”

Lively displays of locally grown vegetables welcome shoppers at the SM Weekend Market at SM City Southmall.

In the upcoming months, additional improvements and market rollouts are anticipated as the event launches a statewide partnership between CDA and SM Supermalls