McDonald’s will launch its New & Better McCafé Iced Coffee assortment on August 19; it will include new varieties and an enhanced flavor profile. The New & Better McCafé Iced Coffee collection promises a bolder brew and creamier blend that everyone will want to experience, all served up in freshly designed classic yellow cups! McCafé’s hot and iced coffee drinks are a beloved beverage!
Adi Hernandez, Assistant Vice President for Corporate Relations & Impact
Ashley Santillan-Delgado, Marketing Director for Channels at McDonald’s Philippines, states, “We always listen to our customers.” “The New & Better McCafé Iced Coffee is the result of months of development and research, delivering an expanded taste journey that everyone can enjoy. Our customers take their beverages seriously, and we do too.”
In my personal experience, I’m not really a fan of iced coffee, but when I tasted this iced coffee from McDonald’s, it became my favorite. I often find myself ordering their coffee, especially when I’m rushing to work or if I like to drink iced coffee. I even visited a McDonald’s here in Vietnam to buy iced coffee to relax my mind and energize me throughout the day. I do love this coffee.
No matter where or when you have it, McDonald’s has a yellow cup ready for every type of coffee drinker. Starting at Php50, classic coffee fans can grab a McCafé Iced Coffee Original, while those going for a sweet treat can go with the McCafé Iced Coffee Vanilla or a McCafé Iced Coffee Chocolate. At the same time, McCafé Coffee Float awaits everyone searching for creamy indulgence. For those who prefer a no-fuss approach to their coffee, McDonald’s is happy to introduce the McCafé Iced Coffee Black to the lineup. Each variant is available at any time and anywhere via Dine-In, Delivery, Drive-Thru and McDonald’s Fries & Dessert stations nationwide.
“Everyone has their own flavor preferences, in addition to when or how they want their coffee,” says Santillan-Delgado. “So we made sure that, no matter where or when you want to have your drink, McDonald’s will have a yellow cup ready and waiting to lift up your day.”
When they wear their best yellow shirt or dress, McDonald’s App customers can try the New and Better McCafé Iced Coffee for just P25 on August 19, saving them P35. From August 20 to 24, McDonald’s App Drive Thru VIPs can receive their Medium Iced Coffee for just P35. In the upcoming days, coffee lovers should keep an eye out for additional New & Better McCafé Iced Coffee promotions and sales!
Remember that things are surely going to become better when you get a New & Better McCafé Iced Coffee at your preferred McDonald’s store. It comes in a yellow cup, after all.
Hand-in-hand for environmental conservation. Present in the Memorandum of Agreement signing were (from left to right)Sto. Tomas City, Batangas Mayor Atty. Arth Jhun Marasigan, PCPPI Chief Environmental, Social and Governance Officer Atty. Carina Bayon, and City Environment and Natural Resources Office Head Engineer Eric Velasco.
The Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) and the local government of Sto became parties to a Memorandum of Agreement signed by Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), the official maker and distributor of PepsiCo products in the nation. The corporation has committed to long-term environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices by using Tomas, Batangas for the Adopt-A-River Program.
Through this relationship, the Southern Tagalog Region Operations (STRO) team of PCPPI will strengthen efforts to involve the community and maintain cleanliness and obstruction-free Dipangla Creek. The aforementioned watercourse runs 300 meters through Brgy. San Miguel, close to the STRO facility in Sto. Tomas.
“The partnership to protect the Dipangla Creek through the Adopt-A-River Program is an essential part of our commitment to promote responsible water stewardship across our operations. This is aligned with our goal to create a positive impact on society with programs focused on responsible and ethical operations, employee and community empowerment, and environmental sustainability,” said PCPPI Chief Environmental, Social and Governance Officer Atty. Carina Bayon.
PCPPI will ensure the weekly deployment of team members to conduct the collection of solid wastes, maintenance, and upkeep of the project area. It will also monitor the execution of weekly cleaning, overgrown vegetation cutting, and collection of accumulated residual and non-residual garbage along the river stream. Furthermore, PCPPI will put up vertical gardens along the Dipangla Creek stream in support of the enhanced National Greening Program.
Aside from the Adopt-A-River Program, PCPPI STRO has been actively supporting other environmental initiatives led by LLDA and the Sto. Tomas LGU through the years. In September 2021, STRO provided assistance to the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) during the cleanup activity held along San Juan River traversing Brgy. San Vicente.
In July 2022, STRO took part in the National Arbor Day Tree Planting Activity of the Sto to commemorate PCPPI’s anniversary. A Certificate of Appreciation for the donation of 200 narra tree seedlines was also given to the plant by Tomas CENRO. Furthermore, STRO provided backing for CENRO’s “Operasyon Linis Ilog” initiative, which was held in June 2023 to commemorate Philippine Environment Month.
“PCPPI will continue to strengthen our partnerships with the local government and other key community stakeholders to further our environmental sustainability commitments and contribute to the development of the towns and cities where we operate,” Atty. Bayon added.
Please visit www.pepsiphilippines.com for additional information about Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines and its community and environmental activities.
A greenlight for the youth. (L-R) Justine Raagas, the Philippine Business Education Executive Director; Paulette Liu, Primary Structures Educational Foundation, Inc. – School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, Leadership and Service President; Gisela Tiongson, Jollibee Group Foundation President; Ruth Angeles, Chief Human Resources Officer, Jollibee Foods Corporation Philippines; Anabelle Gosioco, Assistant Vice President, Head HR – Jollibee; Rhea Santos, Assistant Vice President, Head HR – Chowking; and Mary Ann Lim, Assistant Vice President, Head HR – Greenwich join the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement and memorandum of understanding for the YouthWorks PH program last June 6.
The Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC) and its social development arm, Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF), have partnered with the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to develop a training program under its workforce development initiative, YouthWorks PH, in an effort to increase opportunities for youth employment in the nation.
On June 6, representatives from PBEd, USAID, Primary Structures Educational Foundation, Inc. – School of Knowledge for Industrial Labor, and JFC business units joined the ceremonial signing of the memorandum of agreement and memorandum of understanding for the YouthWorks PH program. JGF’s President Gisela Tiongson and Jollibee Foods Corporation Philippines’ Chief Human Resources Officer Ruth Angeles also attended.
Training for their future. Through the YouthWorks PH project, those who are considered NEET can soon undergo free senior crew skills training that will equip them with the right competencies and experience to secure a job in the food and beverage sector.
The program is geared towards making education and training more responsive to the needs of the economy by working with the government, various industries, and the academe to provide opportunities to youth not in education, employment, or training (NEET).
“Youth unemployment is at 11.2%, even while we experience a high number of vacancies in different industries. But we want to change this by bringing all our strengths together. Our partnership for the YouthWorks PH program is anchored on our shared commitment with JFC to support underprivileged youth to gain access to relevant education and eventually have an opportunity to improve their lives with gainful employment,” said JGF President Gisela Tiongson.
A joyful training
Start of the journey. The classroom training for the pilot batch of the Jollibee Group Foundation and YouthWorks PH Program officially commenced on July 1 in Cebu. The trainees will have two months of classroom training before starting their supervised industry learning in select Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich stores.
Through the YouthWorks PH project, those who are considered NEET can soon undergo free senior crew skills training that will equip them with the right competencies and experience to secure a job in the food and beverage sector.
JFC will lead the program’s pilot batch, which will include 26 NEET youth in Cebu City. In addition to providing work-based training and pre-employment support to the participants in select Jollibee, Chowking, and Greenwich stores, JFC and JGF will also cover the participants’ training costs, training allowances, and accommodation.
“We are elated to see the pilot batch of 26 out-of-school youth in Cebu City jump-start this opportunity,” said Justine Raagas, PBEd Executive Director. “This project is a testament to what we can achieve when we break down silos and work together. When government, businesses, educators, and communities join forces, we can empower young people, unlock their potential, and build a brighter future for all.”
Sharing the joyful experience
JFC and JGF embarked on this initiative as part of its commitment to the community support focus area under its global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow.
Partners in full force. Representatives from the Jollibee Foods Corporation and Jollibee Group Foundation, together with the team from Philippine Business Education and the United States Agency for International Development, form a handshake chain after sealing the partnership for the YouthWorks PH project.
The partnership followed the Company’s fruitful collaborations with the Department of Labor and Employment under the latter’s Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) and with several local governments to offer employment opportunities for the elderly and people with disabilities. The aim of all these programs is to increase work prospects for Filipinos nationwide.
“In JFC, we Choose Joy, and part of a joyful experience is being able to create a positive influence on the lives of others,” said Angeles.
“We are looking forward to the successful pilot implementation of this initiative in JFC and hoping to replicate the initiative in other areas to be able to reach more youth,” she added.
Elevate your culinary experience with the Flamin’ Hot Pepper Roast and Ribs, the newest and hottest offering from Kenny Rogers Roasters. With a blend of spicy, tangy, zesty, and savory flavors, the new recipe sends your taste buds on a gastronomic journey that goes beyond the typical delight that comes with spice. You may now enjoy your favorite Kenny Rogers songs in a whole new way.
With its well-balanced flavor and delicious burst of spice at the finish, the new Flamin’ Hot Pepper Roast & Ribs just heats differently, elevating your dining experience to the level of an exhilarating journey. Even the most experienced eaters of spicy food are sure to have a unique experience with this product range.
Discover a new way to experience spicy:
1. Flamin’ Hot Pepper Roast(PHP 770)
The signature favorite roasted chicken is now marinated in herbs and spices, basted in a fiery hot pepper sauce.
2. Flamin’ Hot Pepper Roast Solo B (PHP 310)
Quarter roast chicken marinated in herbs and spices, basted in a fiery hot pepper sauce. Served with 2 side dishes, 1 rice, and signature corn muffin.
3. Flamin’ Hot Pepper Ribs (P835)
Kenny Rogers’ signature ribs basted in a fiery hot pepper sauce for that extra kick of flavor!
4. Flamin’ Hot Pepper Ribs Solo B (PHP 480)
Kenny’s signature fall-off-the-bone ribs infused with a fiery blend of hot peppers and spices. Includes 1 half slab of Flamin’ Hot Pepper Ribs, rib sauce, 1 cup of rice, 1 side dish, and a corn muffin.
With Kenny Rogers’ new Flamin’ Hot Pepper Roast and Ribs, you can savor layers of hot flavors either dining in or taking it to go. To order for delivery, go to www.kennyrogersdelivery.com.ph, give the hotline a call at 8-555-9000, or place an order through Grab Food and Food Panda.
Follow the official Kenny Rogers Roasters sites on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/KennyRogersRoasters), and Facebook (@KennyRogersPH) to stay up to date on the latest videos and updates.
Recipes that are sure to welcome Nutrition Month in a hearty, delicious, and nutritious way!
Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) is thrilled to present dishes throughout nutrition month that will pack July full of flavor without sacrificing the nutritional content of any meal. The combination of superfoods with the umami flavor—one of the basic five tastes, along with sweet, sour, salty, and bitter—would be a match made in heaven for obtaining the ideal amount of nutrients while also indulging in such delectable cuisine. The word “umami” in Japanese refers to a flavorful, savory taste. It is sometimes described as a savory, meaty goodness that enhances the flavor of each bite.
Gourmet cuisine is frequently described as flavorful and delectable, but can the same be said of superfoods? Though flavor-wise, these food kinds are not as well-liked, they do offer other advantages such as nutrients that prevent heart disease and cancer-fighting capabilities. If you’re wondering why they’re so frequently referred to as “superfoods,” it’s because they have more benefits than merely satisfying hunger. Superfoods are rich in fiber, phytochemicals, and antioxidants that support and feed your body, according to study.
Luckily here in the country, these superfoods are easy to find, convenient to grow, and readily available anywhere. Considering that here in the Philippines, there is always a local store or sari-sari store that carry them as products. Examples of these superfoods found locally are moringa leaves or known locally as malunggay, guava, or bayabas, calamansi, sitaw, pomelo or suha among many others.
With all these superfoods found ready and available locally, there’s just no excuse not to live a life where you’re not able to Eat Well and Live Well. Just be sure that you are well stocked with these superfoods!
Here are some recipes you can use for your next family meal, baon at work, or even just a simple dish preparation to satisfy your random cravings.
Those who love the Chinese restaurant staple orange chicken or lemon chicken are in for a treat with this recipe! You can begin with your sliced tofu cubes as you coat them with cornstarch, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure to coat all sides! That will ensure that perfect crunch! Afterwards, you may now concoct your special orange sauce by heating cooking oil and sautéing the garlic. Add orange juice and our SARSAYA® OYSTER SAUCE, give it a whisk until well incorporated. Add cornstarch and water mixture to thicken sauce and set aside.
Now we make our tofu crispy! In a deep pan, heat oil and deep fry coated tofu cubes until crunchy. Finally, we mix cooked tofu onto the orange saucepan. Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions. Then transfer this perfect meat alternative dish onto a serving plate and enjoy!
Ah, a fried dish that everyone will surely find joy in preparing and devouring. Who doesn’t like fried rolls? It’s time you add Cheese and Malunggay Fish Fillet Rolls to your mastered recipes because this dish was made for people of all ages. Your cooking adventure begins by seasoning cream dory with garlic, ginger, AJI-GINISA®, parsley, and lemon. Let it marinate for at least 10 minutes. Our cream dory fish filets will absorb the meaty-gisa taste from our AJI-GINISA®. Once you’re through with the first step, it’s now time to roll by placing mozzarella and malunggay leaves in the middle of the fish filets and roll. Time to get that crunch! To achieve this, you must make sure that you coat fish filet rolls with flour, egg then breadcrumbs well, before your last and final step, deep fry, and serve! Now fried food lovers have their own favorite sauce pairing, and with this dish, ketchup, mustard, or maybe even sweet & sour sauce should do it!
Tamarind for souring agent? Done that. Vinegar as a sour base? Love that. But do you know what special souring agent you can try? Ripe guava or hinog na bayabas is waiting to be your grand champion for these types of dishes! But we’re sharing an exclusive tip for you guys, sour soups or bases can be leveled up by adding AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning! To prepare, begin by boiling water in a pot. Place ripe guava, tomato, and whole peppercorn and cook until you can mush it with fork. Add the bangus to the pot and cook for 10 minutes. Add fish sauce then boil for another 5 minutes. Drop the okra, green chillies, and kangkong leaves to the pot. Season with AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning. Finally, close the lid and let it rest for 5 minutes before transferring onto a serving bowl for everyone to savor!
Umami and superfoods are indeed a formidable pair for meals that are supposed to make you feel good and nourish your body. These recipes are up to you to modify, and you can do it even after Nutrition month because superfoods are abundant in our homeland, and Ajinomoto products that carry the umami flavor are definitely easy to find, it’s so easy that even your nearest sari-sari store or community store has it.
In honor of the global commemoration of Nutrition Month, APC would like to share with you some simple dishes that we hope will become a regular feature in your home. Naturally, with a personal touch! Philippines, happy Nutrition Month!
Go to Cookmunity by Ajinomoto Philippines for additional recipes. For further updates, you can also get in touch with us on Facebook and Tiktok.
Abot Kamay para sa Laguna De Bay. Jollibee Group employee volunteers helped recover around 670 kilograms of plastics as part of the Laguna Lake Development Authority’s Waste Recovery Program.
Local restaurant chain Jollibee Group demonstrated its dedication to environmental conservation by taking part in the most recent cleanup effort organized by the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) at Barangay Poblacion, Biñan, Laguna. Participating in the aforementioned action were thirty employee volunteers from different Jollibee, Mang Inasal, and Greenwich locations.
As part of the LLDA’s “Abot-Kamay Para sa Laguna de Bay: Mission in Action-Solid Waste Recovery” initiative, some 670 kilograms of plastics were retrieved from the cleanup effort. The program’s goal is to lessen the harm that plastic garbage does to the ecosystems around Laguna de Bay.
“Safeguarding our environment is a collective responsibility, and we are glad to continue actively supporting LLDA’s waste recovery program, consistent with our sustainability commitments,” shared Pepot Miñana, Jollibee Group Chief Sustainability and Public Affairs Officer. “We are also grateful to our employee volunteers, who bring to life our sustainability commitments not only within Jollibee Group, but also to the communities we serve.”
In observance of Earth Day on April 30, staff volunteers from several Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, and Burger King locations joined LLDA in a cleanup project in Barangay Sucat, Muntinlupa City. Additionally, the company fed the 200 volunteers from various groups.
Employee Volunteerism. Thirty employee volunteers from the different Jollibee Group brands participated in the cleanup drive.
These programs are a component of the Jollibee Group’s Sustainability Agenda, “Joy for Tomorrow,” which is a concerted attempt to improve the company’s use of sustainable business practices. The agenda comprises 10 focal areas that correspond with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), with a central focus on the three fundamental pillars of Food, People, and Planet. Go to www.jollibeegroup.com/sustainability for additional details about Joy for Tomorrow.
Jamba is thrilled to announce that it will be reopening in Alabang Town Center, returning to one of the most cherished venues for its patrons. From July 12, there will be no need to go any farther for a trusted source of all-natural smoothies, bowls, and juices.
In honor of the much anticipated return to the South, Jamba is launching a brand-new line of products called Power Oat Blends. These smoothies made with oats are ideal for the Southie who’s always on the run and wants something tasty, nutritious, and full!
I also enjoyed their relaunch, as they gave me the chance to taste their products, and indeed, they are so delicious and nutritious. We also had the chance to make our own smoothie. It was made with fun and learning to have knowledge about their products.
Here’s a sneak peek into these healthy and oat-y blends:
Oat-ally PB Honey
This blend is a non-dairy smoothie made with overnight oats, oat milk, peanut butter, honey and bananas.
Oat-mazing Strawberry
This blend is a non-dairy smoothie made with overnight oats, apple-strawberry juice, oat milk, strawberries, and bananas.
Oat-So-Mango Berry
This blend is a non-dairy smoothie made with overnight oats, apple-strawberry juice, bananas, mangoes, strawberries and blueberries.
Lastly, Jamba is giving away 16 ounces for free, so the festivities don’t end there. up to 22 oz. On the day of opening, all Classic, Plant-Based, and Power smoothies will be enlarged. Take advantage of this limited-time deal by dining in, taking out, or picking up only.
Treats its delivery partners for Father’s Day Dinner Party and Facebook Live Raffle
In order to honor and recognize the hard work and dedication of its Ka-panda delivery partners, foodpanda logistics organized a number of exciting events and special initiatives.
The delivery service provider surprised its delivery partners with a dinner party and surprise giveaways through “Ka-panDAD’s Salo-Salo” and “Sa-10 ‘to Ka-panda, Isang Dekadang Pasasalamat” Facebook Live Raffle as a means to express gratitude and celebrate their success together.
A Father’s Day Treat for Ka-panDADs
foodpanda logistics welcomed Ka-pandas, mainly from Baguio and La Trinidad, Benguet, with “Ka-panDADs Salo-Salo.” This special event served as a thanksgiving party for Father’s Day, providing these hardworking Ka-panDADs a well-deserved break and a treat filled with joy and relaxation.
“We recognize the relentless dedication and passion of our Ka-pandas. On this Father’s Day, we celebrate these heroes on the road and at home through this event. Nagbibigay-pugay kami sa kanilang kasipagan sa pagbalanse ng pang-araw-araw na hanapbuhay at responsibilidad sa kani-kanilang mga pamilya,” Ron Sanders, Rider Experience Lead at foodpanda logistics, expressed.
The event featured a delightful feast and engaging activities like raffles and games, all intended to celebrate these everyday heroes. Adding to the celebration, Ka-pandas enjoyed incredible performances by local artists and bands tto entertain them.
Carlos Alcan, a Ka-panDAD of two from La Trinidad, shared how foodpanda logistics has significantly supported him and his family. “Malaki ‘yung naitulong ng foodpanda logistics kasi ito lang ‘yung pangunahing hanapbuhay ko ngayon. Iniisip ko, number one, ‘yung pamilya ko para mabigay ko yung mga pangangailangan nila.”
He also expressed his gratitude for the company’s initiative during the recent Father’s Day celebration. “Masaya ako dahil nakapagpahinga ako saglit habang kasama ang pamilya ko doon. First time kong maranasan ang ganitong event kaya talagang na-appreciate ko ang effort ng foodpanda logistics.”
Facebook Live Raffle dedicated to Ka-pandas
The company will also hold a Facebook Live Raffle for delivery partners to honor the unsung heroes who tirelessly deliver food and groceries to customers.
The “Sa-10 ‘to Ka-panda!” Raffle allows Ka-pandas to win prizes such as motorcycles, mobile phones, cash incentives, and many more. <Mention brand partners>.
“Celebrating our 10th birthday would not be possible without recognizing the dedication of our Ka-pandas nationwide. We prepared a variety of prizes for them that can help them in their daily delivery routines, pati na rin sa kanilang mga pamilya,” Ron Sanders, foodpanda logistics Rider Experience Lead, shared.
Delivery partners who use Ka-Panda services can take part in live streaming on the Foodpanda Riders Facebook page.
Sanders claims that the company’s recent festivities serve as a reminder of the critical role that its delivery partners play in their success. They pledge to put greater effort into valuing and putting the wellbeing of their delivery partners first. “We use these kinds of events as a way to give back to our Ka-pandas who help us achieve our daily goals,” he said in closing. Our goal is to assist them in whatever manner we can.”
Breakfast preparation made hassle-free without compromising flavor and nutrients you need to begin with a brighter morning
(From left:) Kazuki Kyoya, Category Manager, Marketing; Koichi Ozaki, APC President Mika Makino, APC Director for Sales, Marketing and Public Relations
Without a doubt, breakfast is the most significant meal of the day. It creates the tone for your mornings and serves as your energy source for all of your activities, whether they are at home, at work, in school, or wherever else you are supposed to be. Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) introduces its first simple breakfast that takes less than a minute to prepare, believing that this is an essential portion of a person’s twenty-four-hour period, especially here in the Philippines! This is the ideal partner for people who are constantly on the run and for those who prefer a simple, quick breakfast that retains its flavorful flavor and nutritious content.
Mr. Koichi Ozaki
At the Konbini, a live cooking demonstration of the Ajinomoto Soup & Go® was held for the first time ever. (Ajinomoto items are sold at this pop-up store, which is located in Market Market Taguig and resembles a real convenience store. It is a sight to behold, situated in the center of the mall’s open space next to the terminals. This will undoubtedly draw notice from everyone and pique your curiosity about what’s inside its glass walls. APC President Mr. Koichi Ozaki graces the occasion and shows off how simple it is to make the delicious breakfast soup. Toss in the contents of the Soup & Go® sachet, top with boiling water, and stir. That’s all that’s required. All that’s left to do is wait one minute after completing these simple instructions to have your first taste of the delectable soup.
Me at the event
As we attended their live demonstration, I was amazed at how easily the food was possible to prepare. I myself don’t have a lot of time to prepare food, that’s why I really appreciate these new products. I also like it because it is so delicious. I do love their soup, especially the pumpkins, and at the same time, it is nutritious and a well-made product for all of us.
“We are very excited for the Philippines because we know how the Filipino people love breakfast. With Soup & Go®, our aim is to make their mornings brighter through a convenient dish that’s flavorful and nutritious made with carefully selected ingredients from Japan like corn from the Hokkaido farms (just for corn flavor), and authentic milk from Japan (for all flavors),” says Mr. Koichi Ozaki when asked about what the company aims to achieve with Soup & Go®.
Soup & Go® comes in three flavors, including Corn, Potato, and Pumpkin, packaged with three single-serve sachets in each box and is available at only Php85. Currently available exclusively in 7-11 branches for the first three months. Soon, Soup & Go® will be available nationwide.
“We in Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation are committed to championing a lifestyle that indeed echoes our slogan, Eat Well, Live Well. Through our newest product, Soup & Go®, we are optimistic that it will not only make the mornings of our Filipino customers more convenient, but will also equip them with the necessary nutrients and boost their mood by starting their day with a healthier and flavorful breakfast.” ends Mr. Koichi Ozaki.
Ajinomoto’s first instant soup product available in the Philippines is called Soup & Go®. APC feels that by providing their clients with these quick and simple meals, they are giving them more options for a nutritious breakfast that won’t break the bank or lower the quality of the food they eat during the day. APC has always placed a high value on taste and quality in its goods, and the Soup & Go® line is evidence of their ongoing innovation and dedication to raising the standard of living for Filipinos with everyday ingredients and nutrition that enhances every meal.
Coca-Cola Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Tagum andthe Tagum City Council of Women Foundation launched the iSTAR Center for Entrepreneurship in Davao del Norte on July 4, 2024.
With the opening of Centers for Entrepreneurship (CFEs) under the digital Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources (iSTAR) program in seven important areas, Coca-Cola Philippines hopes to empower more micro-entrepreneurs across the country. The CFEs—which are situated in the cities of Davao del Norte, Cagayan de Oro, Taguig City, Nueva Ecija, Cebu, Bacolod City, and Camarines Sur—will function as long-term centers that provide small business owners with financial support, training, and mentorship.
Through the use of digital platforms, the iSTAR program aims to empower individuals with entrepreneurship and provide them with the skills they need to create and run retail enterprises.
“At Coca-Cola Philippines, we are committed to supporting the entrepreneurial spirit and unlocking the potential of aspiring entrepreneurs. The launch of the iSTAR Centers for Entrepreneurship is a testament to our dedication to foster economic growth and sustainable development at the community level,” said Coca-Cola Philippines President Tony del Rosario during the launch of the CFE in Tagum, Davao del Norte.
The program is the result of a public-private partnership between the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Coca-Cola Philippines. This collaboration supports Coca-Cola Philippines’ broader economic empowerment strategy to break the cycle of generational poverty.
For more than a decade, this partnership has expanded with seven regional microfinance and non-governmental institutions across the country, making iSTAR’s modules free and accessible nationwide through the TESDA Online Program.
iSTAR aims to address key barriers that hinder the development of women entrepreneurs, such as limited access to training, resources, and mentorship. Through its expanded digital platform, iSTAR has empowered over 150,000 micro-entrepreneurs, surpassing its 2025 target of 100,000 graduates. Earlier this year, the program was showcased at the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) at the UN Headquarters in New York.
Coca-Cola Philippines, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Tagum, and partner CSOs and microfinance institutions with the over 800 iSTAR graduates in Davao del Norte
“These CFEs represent hope, opportunity, and the collective effort of our partners like TESDA and the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation Inc., whose dedication is instrumental in making this initiative a reality. Together, with a shared vision of economic empowerment, we can bridge existing gaps and create a truly inclusive environment where micro-entrepreneurship can thrive,” added del Rosario.
TESDA also acknowledges how the iSTAR program helps bridge the digital divide among micro and small businesses. “The Philippines is lagging behind in digitalization, but with Coca-Cola Philippines introducing this digital platform to educate and empower women, we are heading in the right direction,” said TESDA Deputy Director General for Special Concerns Felizardo Colambo.
Building a network of sustainable support
The CFEs represent a strategic expansion of the iSTAR Program by establishing regional hubs that aim to provide business development, training, and support to micro-entrepreneurs.
Students of iSTAR during a learning session at the Center for Entrepreneurship in Tagum City
The hubs will be managed by a network of trusted partners, including microfinance institutions, cooperatives, civil society organizations, and the local government units of the hubs’ locations. This initiative reinforces Coca-Cola Philippines’ commitment to building the capacity of Filipinos in entrepreneurship and empowering them through the strategic use of digital platforms and the fostering of business networks.
“When the CFE was offered to us at the Tagum City Council of Women Foundation (TCCWFI), we accepted it with open arms, without hesitation. We immediately saw the need for it, not just in our area, but throughout Mindanao. We are grateful to the City Government of Tagum and Coca-Cola Philippines for bringing this initiative to our city,” said TCCWFI President Alma Uy.
Scaling impact with technology
The iSTAR Program and CFEs are among Coca-Cola Philippines’ projects that seek to leverage technology to amplify the reach and impact of its support for micro-retailers. It’s similar to the Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM): Balik PET Bottle program, which utilizes innovative methods to promote the circularity of plastic packaging.
By assisting in the conversion of their sari-sari stores and carinderias into recyclable PET bottle collection points, TEM, in partnership with the Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), hopes to assist micro-retailers in their role as frontline environmental advocates. Customers are urged to discard their plastic bottles since they are more visible and close to these drop-off containers. By gathering bottles, micro-retailers can accrue environmental points that they can exchange for merchandise and rewards, enhancing their bottom line.
Graduates of the iSTAR program receive assistance in joining the Coca-Cola Philippines network of TEM partners, enabling them to expand their enterprises and encourage their local communities to maintain clean environments.
