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Expansion of Jollibee Group’s Foreign Franchised Brands is Strengthened

Store Openings that Break Records. The Jollibee Group established 23 Burger King locations in 2022, setting a Philippine record for the company’s restaurant openings in a calendar year.

As part of its growth strategies, the Jollibee Group is concentrating on improving the performance of its internationally franchised businesses in the Philippines.

“We aim to become the leading market developer of foreign restaurants brands in the country. By leveraging our brand portfolio to provide diverse offerings for various market segments at different price points, and strategically expanding our store network, Burger King, Yoshinoya, and Panda Express are expected to continuously contribute to the sustainable growth of our domestic business,” said Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee Group Country Head for Philippine Business.

Store Openings

Burger King opened 23 outlets in 2022 as part of the firm’s expansion plans, which is a record for the company for the year. Additionally, it debuted its 125th landmark location in 2022, as well as five Bike ‘n Dine locations on Visayas Avenue and Shaw Wack-Wack in San Juan. Alabang-West in Muntinlupa; Vermosa in Imus, Cavite; Carmona Cavite; and Quezon City.

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In 2022, the Jollibee Group also relaunched Japan’s world-famous Beef Bowl Chain, Yoshinoya. This is its first ever Japanese food chain, making it a strong addition to the foreign franchised brands currently operated by the company. Yoshinoya serves a beefed-up menu in a newly redesigned contemporary and casual Japanese space headlined by their world-famous gyudon or beef bowl.

Successful Relaunch. The Jollibee Group successfully relaunched Yoshinoya in the Philippines with a refreshed store design and menu offering.

Last year, Yoshinoya opened four stores and renovated three existing stores. The Jollibee Group formed a 50-50 joint venture with YIPI—the Philippine subsidiary of Asia Yoshinoya International Sdn. Bhd. and Yoshinoya Holdings Co. Ltd. in June 2021. The said partnership established Yoshinoya Jollibee Foods, Inc., which operates the Yoshinoya stores in the country and plans to expand Yoshinoya’s store network to 50 stores in the long term.

Meanwhile, Panda Express opened ten stores last year, five of which were the first in its host cities—Robinsons Place Ermita in Manila, SM Southmall in Las Piñas, Betterliving in Parañaque, Shell SLT in Muntinlupa, and Greenhills in San Juan. In February 2023, Panda Express opened its first drive-thru restaurant in Asia with the launch of its Sumulong Highway branch. This new location in Marikina City also marks Panda Restaurant Group’s 100th international restaurant. Panda Restaurant Group, Inc. (PRG) and the Jollibee Group formed JBPX Foods, Inc., a joint venture in 2019 to bring the world’s largest American Chinese dining concept in the Philippines.

Milestone Opening. The first drive-thru store of Panda Express in Asia was opened by the Jollibee Group in Marikina City. This also marks the brand’s 100thinternational branch.

Exciting Product Offerings

The Jollibee Group’s thrust with its foreign franchised brands is to bring the authentic experience to Filipinos. Apart from this, the Jollibee Group also provides menu offerings that are either unique to Philippine market or among the best performing for these franchised brands in the region and the world.

On top of its iconic entree, the Original Orange Chicken®, Panda Express introduced Kung Pao Fish last year for the season of Lent. Its Beef Broccoli and Honey Walnut Shrimp are also among the best-selling dishes in the region. Meanwhile, Yoshinoya—with its signature beef bowl—also offered dishes that Filipino foodies can enjoy such as Tempura, Karaage, and desserts like Mochi Matcha Ice Cream and Coffee Jelly.

Burger King Philippines was also acknowledged as having one of the best-in-class launches in Asia for its new product Chicken King. Other exciting new products that guests enjoyed for a limited time last year were Cheese Bites, Plant-Based X-tra Long Chicken, Spicy Chicken King, Spicy Chicken Nuggets, and Truffle Whopper.

The Jollibee Group plans to add more Burger King, Yoshinoya, and Panda Express locations this year. The company’s objective to rank among the top five restaurant corporations in the globe includes these new shop openings.

“Our thrust is to bring the original experience of these popular brands to the Filipino people. I am confident that with the success of our foreign franchised brands, and with the continued support of their fans, Jollibee Group will succeed in achieving its long-term growth plans,” Tanbuntiong added.

June 29, 2023 by
Food, Lifestyle

Global General Counsel for Jollibee Group Named Southeast Asia’s In-House Lawyer of the Year


Filipino Pride. Jollibee Group’s Atty. Valerie Feria Amante was named Southeast Asia’s In-House Lawyer of the Year by Asian Legal Business. She is the sole Filipino individual awardee this year.
 

Global General Counsel & Ethics Head and Compliance Officer for The Jollibee Group Atty. The 19th Annual Southeast Asia Law Awards presented by Asian Legal Business (ALB) honored Valerie Feria Amante the In-House Attorney of the Year in 2023. Amante is this year’s lone recipient from the Philippines.

The ALB SE Asia Law Awards 2023 honor the outstanding achievements of private practitioners and in-house counsel in SE Asia and are assessed by a panel of senior and knowledgeable legal industry experts from diverse sectors around the region.

“I am honored to have been recognized as In-House Lawyer of the Year for Southeast Asia. I have always believed that Filipinos can stand proud alongside the best in the world, and I am happy to be one of many examples showing this to be true,” said Amante.

Amante oversees a group of 19 attorneys and 10 paralegals from the Philippines, China, Vietnam, USA, Singapore, and Ireland as the Global General Counsel & Ethics Head and Compliance Officer for the Jollibee Group.

“This award represents the work of the great team of lawyers and paralegals across our offices in six countries that comprise the Legal organization in the Jollibee Group, as well as the collaboration of colleagues from different functions and businesses,” she expounded.

Rewarding in-house legal career

Amante has been with the Jollibee Group for over 16 years now and has led the development of the legal, ethics, and compliance functions as integral components in Jollibee Group’s growth and expansion over the years.

“Building an effective multinational legal organization to ensure our businesses everywhere have access to quality support; setting standards, policies and processes to facilitate legal consistency and alignment globally, balanced with agility and flexibility locally; creating and disseminating tools to empower people and manage legal risks at scale; and providing our team’s perspective in conversations at all levels to enable legally-informed business decisions — all contribute to making legal, ethics and compliance integral to the Jollibee Group’s way of doing business,” Amante added.

Amante graduated as Salutatorian of the University of the Philippines College of Law in 2000, and placed 7thin the Philippine Bar Examinations of the same year. After starting her career in a large law firm and in another publicly listed company, she joined JFC in 2007. In 2016, she was awarded the ALB Philippine In-House Lawyer of the Year. This time, she won the In-House Lawyer of the Year award covering the SE Asia region.

“My inclusion is a direct result of the meaningful, high-impact, and interesting work that I have had the opportunity to do in the Jollibee Group, and the support that JFC has given me to continuously grow and elevate the function,” Amante said.

Inclusive legal organization

“We are committed to equal opportunities and hiring based on merit. Over 70% of the legal organization in the Jollibee Group are women, and two lawyers, including myself, are Persons with Disability (PWD),” Amante said.

When asked for her best piece of advise for aspiring attorneys, Amante responded, “Anchor yourself on quality and honesty. Recognize your values and priorities and act on them. Be respectful to everyone, including yourself. Additionally, a sense of humor is helpful!”

June 28, 2023 by
Food

At Greenwich G, enjoy Sulit Pizza and Pasta Sarap! Savers

Lacking money yet willing to go on a gastronomic trip? We have your back! The nation’s top-ranked pizza chain, Greenwich, is launching G! Offers affordable, tasty snacks to satisfy your daily desires for pizza and pasta. P59, starting with G! Savers allows you to enjoy “sulit pizza and pasta sarap” while staying within your budget.

You may enjoy the Greenwich pleasures that make up the G if you’re a student, someone who’s always on the go, an adult working, or on a budget. Savings like the new Ham and Cheese Pizzawrap for P59, the Spam® Hawaiian Pizzawrap for P99, and the Lasagna Supreme® Snack Plate for only P89. If you prefer their traditional pizza and pasta combination, you may also choose the Pizza Value Meal D, which costs just P79. included on the G as well! The Potato Waves® with dip from Savers line, the go-to bite-sized snack of kabarkadas, for only P69.

“With G! Savers, everyone is in for a treat because puwede nang araw-arawin ang sulit pizza at pasta sarap. Whether you’re a student on a tight budget or someone who is simply budget-conscious, G! Savers is here to save your day,” said Ali De Torres, the head of marketing of Greenwich.  

Pizzawrap may not yet be available for our kabarkadas in Visayas and Mindanao, but don’t fret as you can still avail the other G! Savers offers, such as the Lasagna Supreme® Snack Plate!

Enjoy sulit pizza and pasta sarap every day, and make sure to visit your preferred Greenwich retailer. Additionally, you can order them from foodpanda, grabfood, and greenwichdelivery.com. You can place an order by calling their delivery hotline at #5-55-55.

Visit Greenwich’s official Facebook page, Greenwich Barkada, for further details, or send the page a Facebook Messenger message.

June 19, 2023 by
Food

McDonald’s Philippines plans to hire 20,000 people in 2023 to support its ongoing expansion


Proud McDonald’s managers and crew ready to bring more feel-good moments in stores nationwide

Under the leadership of its master franchise holder and owner Dr. George T. Yang and President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang, McDonald’s Philippines, which currently has close to 60,000 employees, will offer more than 20,000 job possibilities to Filipinos as it continues to open new restaurants throughout the nation.

“With every new store that we open, we are able to provide employment opportunities in local  communities where the store is located. We directly hire all our people and do not practice contractualization. This has always been the way we hire our people since our chairman, Dr. George T. Yang opened the 1st McDonald’s in the Philippines in Morayta, Manila in 1981—and it is something that we will continue to do. We believe that if our people working in the restaurants have job security first, it will allow them to focus and do well in their job of serving our customers. ” said Kenneth S. Yang, President and CEO of McDonald’s Philippines.

McDonald’s Philippines takes pleasure in the top-notch training it offers its employees, giving them the competitive edge in the business as they learn about various international methods and procedures for restaurant service. This pride extends beyond job security. Through an extensive learning and development program, McDonald’s employees are able to develop professionally and learn skills that will last a lifetime.

McDonald’s employees also receive annual salary increases, insurance, hospital and medical benefits, special employee discounts, and other allowances.

According to the fast-food chain, priority areas for hiring Management Trainees are Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Montalban, Dumaguete, Bacolod, Makati, Manila, Quezon City, Pampanga, Tagaytay, Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, Rizal, Lucena and Pasig City. Priority areas for crew members are Parañaque, Manila, Pasay, Pasig, Marikina, Taytay, Antipolo, Kidapawan, and Davao City.

Equal Opportunity Employer

McDonald’s Philippines takes pride in being an equal opportunity employer, providing career opportunities to working students and Filipinos from all walks of life—regardless of background, age, gender, or sexual orientation.

From the crew room to the boardroom, the quick service restaurant (QSR) giant is driven by a good representation of women with more than 50% taking vital positions and leadership roles.

Along with providing regular employment, McDonald’s Philippines also ensures a safe and inclusive workplace that allows its people to thrive. As one of the country’s biggest employers, McDonald’s Philippines champions equity where all employees, whether in its head office or stores, have equal access to training and development and advancement opportunities.

McDonald’s extends this to more members of the community with programs like WIP or Workforce Immersion Program. WIP provides training for Senior High School students by allowing them firsthand experience of the fast food industry and its operations; the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), where McDonald’s helps in providing jobs for underprivileged students and out-of-school youth through employing them to become McDonald’s crew members. Since adopting SPES in 2011, McDonald’s has provided 16,319 Filipino youth with employment opportunities.

In partnership with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd), McDonald’s Alternative Workforce Program offers work-based training positions for 5,000 unemployed and out-of-school youths through YouthWorksPH to provide beneficiaries with financial knowledge, skills, and access to resources necessary to effectively manage finances through adulthood.

Among the Philippines’ best employers

McDonald’s Philippines was also recognized as one of the Philippines’ best employers in the inaugural list of The Philippines’ Best Employers for 2023 by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and international market research firm Statista. The list shared a ranking of the country’s top-rated employers as evaluated by their employees.

“We are thrilled to have been named as one of the country’s best employers for 2023. This is not just a testament to our commitment, and the work we have done for our people, but it is also a challenge for us to always be a step better to bring out the best in them,” said Margot B. Torres, Managing Director, McDonald’s Philippines.

With additional brand-new store openings planned for 2023, McDonald’s Philippines will keep giving back to the areas where it operates so that both its employees and customers can continue to have satisfying interactions with the restaurant chain.

To learn more about job opportunities with McDonald’s Philippines, visit the McDonald’s Careers Facebook Page (McDo PH Careers FB Page) or McDonald’s Philippines LinkedIn.

June 14, 2023 by
Food

With Tatang’s Boneless Cebu Lechon, SAVOR the ORIGINAL Flavors of Cebu

Do you want Cebu lechon’s mouth watering flavor? Look no further because Tatang’s will fulfill your appetite! We take pride in offering you the authentic flavors of Cebu, including the well-known and adored Classic Lechon and the fiery and mouthwatering Spicy Lechon.

Tatang’s is committed to upholding the traditional methods that make Cebu lechon unique. Our skilled chefs carefully prepare each lechon, infusing it with a delicious concoction of flavorful herbs and spices that will transport your taste buds to the dazzling coastlines of Cebu. The final outcome? Lechon that is mouthwateringly crisp and tender and will leave you wanting more.

We’ve deliberately placed our branches in strategic areas to ensure that everyone may enjoy our lechon pleasures. From the busy Gilmore neighborhood, the bustling streets of BGC, the quaint Orion neighborhood, or the boisterous Reposo street, Tatang’s is just a stone’s throw away.

But it’s not only about the food; it’s also about the experience. Here at Tatang’s we believe in creating memorable experiences with every meal. Our friendly staff will make you feel right at home as you walk into our welcoming environment or place an order for delivery. We’re committed to supplying you with the best levels of taste and quality, so you may enjoy your favorite lechon recipes with a grin.

Tatang’s Boneless Cebu Lechon is the ideal option whether you’re organizing a birthday celebration, a family boodle fight, or simply treating yourself to a flavorful delight. Allow us to take you on a culinary journey where the flavors of Cebu are brought to life. Visit Tatang’s to enjoy the richness of our lechon and the warmth of our welcome.

Follow us right away on Instagram and Facebook at @tatangsreposo and Tatang’s Cebu Boneless Lechon – Reposo! Call us at 09167068223 or 09634732477 to make your delivery reservations right now.

June 10, 2023 by
Entertainment, Food

Ginebra organizes the White Party in honor of World Gin Day, The ‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile’ attribute of gin is highlighted by GSM

Ginebra San Miguel Inc. (GSMI), the company that produces the best-selling gin in the world, is celebrating World Gin Day (WGD) this year in a “cool, clear, and versatile” manner. June will be recognized as World Gin Month with a series of events beginning with a media introduction on June 8 at The Westin Manila in Ortigas. As I joined the blast during the much anticipated event, we really had fun and enjoyed everything, especially with all the flavors and GSM products they have offered and served. I also had the chance to meet the three personalities that grace the event of GSM, namely, Zanjo Marudo, Hipon Girl and Basel, who also make the event more alive and contagious. They also showcased the mixing of drinks and the different contests of their graduates as part of the fun-filled evening.

Selfie with the celebrities

WGD is a worldwide event celebrated on the second Saturday of June and is led in the Philippines by GSMI, which was also responsible for bringing the inaugural WGD celebrations to the Asia Pacific area in 2014. The main brand of GSMI, Ginebra San Miguel, celebrated its 180th anniversary in that year. Currently, gin lovers anticipate GSMI’s month-long events, which not only honor gin’s continuing impact on our drinking culture but also highlight its significance in festivals, fiestas, gatherings, and even our everyday victories.

Paolo Abrera, host and GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina

“We join gin enthusiasts worldwide in celebrating World Gin Day. As pioneers of this event in our country, we aspire to ignite the spirit of greater appreciation for more Filipinos to know gin’s outstanding qualities, as it is a drink that is ‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile,’” says GSMI Marketing Manager Ron Molina.

‘Cool, Clear, and Versatile’

This June 8, GSMI once again reinforces that “Gin Is In,” highlighting gin’s “Cool, Clear, and Versatile” qualities that elevate it from the rest.

Gin has been around since the 17th century, and remains popular to this day, especially in Europe, and of course, the Philippines. It is loved by many, and its popularity can be attributed to its taste—the flavor of Juniper and a variety of botanicals—allowing gin to exude that classic yet “Cool” vibe.

The gin’s “Clear,” pure quality is derived from a rigorous distillation process that brings out its best flavor. Since it is unpretentious – with nothing to hide – it is a drink known for its “Versatility,” as it can be enjoyed straight or mixed with other ingredients in a cocktail.  

In a new campaign supporting the appreciation for Gin, GSMI features three exciting and authentic personalities who perfectly embody these unique characteristics of gin.

The Three personalities: Basel Manadil, Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol and Zanjoe Marudo

Gin Is Cool.

The actor and model Zanjoe Marudo likes the cool and refreshing gin experience to punctuate the day. For him, being cool is more than style and moves; it is being calm, too. “Alam niyo kung anong totoong COOL sakin? Yung pagiging kalmado ko (You know what’s truly cool for me? It is my being calm),” says Zanjoe.  His choice of gin is popular to this day – Ginebra San Miguel, which has been his favorite since his days growing up in Batangas.

Gin Is Clear.

Basel Manadil’s choice is GSM Premium Gin, a distilled gin made with natural ingredients and fine botanicals. Popularly known as “The Hungry Syrian,” the Syrian-born Filipino vlogger’s viral posts have made him a clear favorite among millions of netizens. As he would say, “always be CLEAR with your intentions no matter where you go. Because everything you do, can make an impact to others.”

Gin is Versatile.

Actress comedian Herlene “Hipon Girl” Budol likes her gin to be versatile, a drink she can enjoy in many ways. This love for versatility in drinks is something that she also carries in life. The fact that this comedian was able to transform herself into a serious pageant contender truly is outstanding and admirable. Herlene has won over Filipinos with her charming wit, down-to-earth personality, and of course, her remarkable versatility. “In life, dapat VERSATILE (In life, one should be versatile). If you are good at one thing, you can also be good at anything! Stay true while learning many things.”

The three of them – Zanjoe, Basel, and Herlene – will not only grace the WGD celebration but will also be present at various events of GSMI during “Gin Is In” celebrations starting in June.

“We are proud to say that they truly embody the best qualities of gin: Zanjoe is ‘Cool like Gin Is In.’ Basel is ‘Clear like Gin Is In,’ and Herlene is ‘Versatile like Gin Is In,’” Molina added.

The 3 Graduates of the GSM Bar Academy from left: Angela Felarca, Jhyrus Denver A. Domingo and JP Peñaflor

GSM Bar Academy graduates ‘mix’ back

One of the highlights of the WGD event is the presence of three mixologists who are scholar-graduates of the Ginebra San Miguel Bar Academy, a partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) that gives Filipinos a chance to change their lives through education – training students in bartending, flairtending, and basic entrepreneurship.

With the goal of producing globally-competitive and job-ready graduates, while elevating the quality of the bartending profession in the process, the GSM Bar Academy is proud to say that it has produced an astounding 100% immediate employability for all its graduates in 2022.

During WGD, three graduates of the GSM Bar Academy – Jhyrus Denver A. Domingo, Angela Felarca, and JP Peñaflor – who are all employed in top bars in Metro Manila, will showcase their mixology skills in a friendly competition with the theme, “Gin Is In, ” which will feature the world’s most popular and bestselling gin Ginebra San Miguel and other brands, GSM Blue and GSM Premium Distilled Gin.

The success of the GSM Bar Academy in transforming the lives not only of the students but also of their families and the community has not gone unnoticed. In fact, the program will be a recipient of the prestigious International CSR Excellence Award, to be formally awarded on June 16 in London, UK.

‘Gin Is In’ Nationwide

Part of the WGD celebration will be the launch of the second season of G-MIX Nation Online Series, hosted by Luis Manzano, which will be shown for the first time and will feature new cocktail recipes. Alongside is the Home Bar Kit that features Ginebra products and tools for mixing different kinds of cocktails, which is sold online and at select supermarkets.

To ensure gin enthusiasts across the country can partake in the “Gin Is In” festivity, Ginebra San Miguel Inc. will also host mini events in around 50 bars nationwide, including those in Pampanga, Naga, Cebu, and Cagayan De Oro. These bar activations will offer consumers exclusive promotions, raffle giveaways, and outlet merchandising, providing an opportunity for everyone to immerse themselves in the celebration.

To sustain the momentum of the “Gin Is In,” there will be various activities in hundreds on-premise outlets from July to December. Participating outlets will receive exclusive benefits, special “Gin Is In” stubs for consumers to support their patronage.

GSMI’s World Gin Day celebration is just the beginning of a series of exciting events, allowing enthusiasts to declare their love and support for the vibrant local gin culture. In the country, gin is synonymous with Ginebra San Miguel. It is the country’s pioneering gin and the oldest consumer brand still in the market, but still remains cool, clear and versatile, a timeless classic yet still in tune with the times.

Ginebra San Miguel bottles go through a meticulous production procedure to guarantee the highest quality. Variants like GSM Blue, GSM Blue Flavors, and Ginebra San Miguel Premium Gin have been produced to target various market niches as evidence of the brand’s strength. Since it was only introduced last year, its 1834 Premium Distilled Gin has gained popularity among people with discerning tastes who are attracted by its blend of traditional juniper berries with distinctive Philippine botanicals like Sampaguita and Calamansi.

The world’s best-selling gin, Ginebra San Miguel, is made by GSMI, according to renowned international beverage publication Drinks International. Other premium distilled spirits produced by GSMI include GSM Blue Light Gin, GSM Blue Mojito, GSM Blue Margarita, GSM Blue Gin Pomelo, GSM Premium Gin, 1834 Premium Distilled Gin, Antonov Vodka, Aejo Gold Rum, Primera Light Brandy, No. 1 Chinese wine Vino Kulafu in the Philippines, and the recently introduced G&T Ultralight Spirit Drink.

June 9, 2023 by
Food

World Bicycle Day is observed by McDonald’s Philippines with their second Tour De McDo


McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang together with cycling participants at McDonald’s Quirino Mabini for its 2nd Tour de McDo last June 4.

McDonald’s Philippines presents its second community bike ride in honor of World Bicycle Day following the success of its first Tour de McDo.The most recent trip brought together a variety of cycling personalities and communities concurrently in Pampanga, Intramuros, and Tagaytay, three important cities across the nation.

The Tour de McDo is a multi-stage bike competition that was launched as part of McDonald’s Green and Good campaign, which is the fast-food giant’s commitment to improve its environmental performance by incorporating sustainable and alternative solutions into its operations and restaurants. With the help of Tour de McDo, McDonald’s promotes a better lifestyle to its patrons while also highlighting numerous scenic cycling routes that pass by McDonald’s locations with bike-friendly amenities.

Earlier this year, Tour de McDo’s first round highlighted McDonald’s fifth flagship Green and Good store–the McDonald’s Nuvali, Sta. Rosa branch. McDonald’s Nuvali, the QSR giant’s 700th store nationwide, boasts its bike-friendly features, utility-efficient solutions, and green building solutions. Aside from its sustainable restaurant innovations, the strategic location of the store makes it an ideal stop for the strong cycling community in Nuvali.

Celebrating World Bicycle Day with its second Tour de McDo

Following its success and strong demand from cycling communities, the sophomore ride now features three new scenic routes to cater to the different levels of cycling: Manila, Intramuros for the beginner route (20KM), Clark, Pampanga for the intermediate route (34KM), and Tagaytay for the advanced route (48KM).

Almost 100 participants joined the event and received Tour de McDo kits, which include an exclusive Tour de McDo Dri Fit shirt, Tour de McDo limited-edition stickers, and a McDonald’s breakfast meal, all for free.

“For a long time, our McDonald’s stores have played an integral role in many bike rides as a stopover or pit stop. This gave us an opportunity to find more ways to bring together the interests of our customers and care for the planet, under our Green and Good campaign. By promoting sustainable active mobility through Tour de McDo, we hope to encourage more people to get on a bike, so we can collectively do our part in lessening CO2 emissions,” shared McDonald’s Philippines President and CEO Kenneth S. Yang.

McDonald’s stores featured in the various routes were: McDonald’s Quirino Mabini, McDonald’s Clark CM Recto Pampanga, McDonald’s Porac Pampanga, McDonald’s Nuvali, Sta. Rosa, and McDonald’s Delos Reyes, Tagaytay all offer bike-friendly features such as a Bike & Dine facility, so that cyclists can dine in with the safety of their bikes. The stores also opened dedicated Bike Repair Stations that offer free use of tools for any basic repairs.

Introducing the Cyclists Meal for weekend bike rides this June

McDonald’s Philippines announces its Cyclists Meal, a unique McDonald’s App offer accessible for all weekends in June 2023, extending the celebration of World Bicycle Day over the entire month. Weekend cyclists can visit any McDonald’s location and show the Cyclists Meal voucher from the McDonald’s app to receive a Cheesy Eggdesal with Sausage and a Medium McCafe Iced Coffee Original for just 99 pesos.

For Android users and iOS users, the McDonald’s Promo App is free to download from the Google Play store and the Apple App store, respectively. Follow McDonald’s on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to learn more about the upcoming Tour de McDo and other cycling-related projects.

June 9, 2023 by
Food

Psst! A Bad Day? These Everyday Reminders Will Boost The Way You Feel

In a perfect world, everything will go your way. You may always buy whatever you want, the MRT will never be late or crowded, and despite indulging your sweet taste, you won’t put on any weight. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as an ideal world, and sometimes navigating through daily life is more difficult than we would want.

The fact is, having these minor hiccups doesn’t really ruin life. Instead, see them as delightful tidbits that add a little extra spice to your experience. The way we respond to difficulties has a huge impact on how we handle them, as does occasionally giving in to pressure rather than resisting it.

If you need a little refresher that feeling BAD is not really all that BAD, then here are a few daily reminders that will surely turn that frown into a smile.

1. The only difference between a good day and a bad day is your attitude. – Dennis S. Brown

Could this be any more true? It may sound cliche or even too idealistic, but it is how we take and give in to things that change the way we view and feel them.

2. Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. -Robert Louis Stevenson

This is the perfect reminder to all of us who can be a little tough on ourselves when we fall short of our expectations. Sometimes you win. Other times you just get to be a step closer to your goal. Both are okay.

3. Sometimes you need those bad days, to help you appreciate the good ones. – Unknown

Read that again. If every day is perfect, then what makes a good day… good? Appreciating your wins is so much sweeter when you’ve experienced losses, too.

4. I am learning to trust the journey even when I do not understand it. – Mila Bron

Not ultimately knowing where you are going or what’s coming next may be one of the most terrifying things in life. But it’s the element of surprise and the way that we enjoy the ride that makes life all the more special.

5. If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor. – Eleanor Roosevelt

Yes, flavor. All the limitations we put on ourselves to make sure everything goes our way are the roadblocks that can make life black and white. Live truly and honestly by going through flavors. Bitter, sweet, or both, all are important in the great recipe of life.

When was the last time you allowed yourself to just ‘give in?’ When you feel like the day is tougher than usual, tap on your inner child and remember how you used to handle your big emotions. For a lot of us, it is simply allowing ourselves to FEEL. That, or a bite or two of simply good ice cream.

The next time you are feeling down, get yourself your favorite Nestlé Ice Cream cold treat. The leading ice cream brand has never failed to make anyone smile with its quality flavors, one bite of which can turn a bad day into a good one.

Being the true champ that it is, Nestlé Ice Cream is making everyone’s summer extra special with its Great Ice Cream Sale. The promo, which will run until June 30 gives big discounts to cult favorites like Nestlé Temptations (Strawberries & Cream, Almond Brownie Fudge, Double Dutch, Cookies & Cream, Rocky Road, Mocha & Cashew), Nestlé Drumstick (Double Choco Vanilla and Ube Cheesecake), and Nobrelli (Choco-Keso-Ube, Choco-Manga-Ube, Choco-Pandan-Ube). This special treat is available when you buy in all leading supermarkets and Nestlé Ice Cream’s official Lazada store: Ice Cream Party PH.

If that isn’t an indication that it’s time to take a break for yourself, we don’t know what is. Ice cream does, after all, make everything better, but should you really save some for bad days? Do it now. Indulge.

Follow Nestlé Ice Cream Philippines and Nestlé Temptations on Facebook to learn about other promotions. To sweeten up your Instagram feed, you may also follow Nestlé Temptations.

May 23, 2023 by
Food, Lifestyle

This summer, Gatorade No Sugar fuels Filipinos’ progress

Summertime is a time for outdoor activities. Due to the heat, more Filipinos are taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors to relax with friends or pick up new hobbies and sports. But in the blazing heat, the body loses more than just water because essential minerals needed to maintain fundamental functions are depleted more quickly

Health professionals and medical journals caution that summertime increases the risk of dehydration. If dehydration is not treated right away, the consequences could be permanent and call for lifelong care. As a result, the World Health Organization (WHO) urges everyone to drink enough water and to monitor their sugar intake throughout the dry season.

Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI), the exclusive manufacturer of PepsiCo beverages in the country, supports this call by encouraging Filipinos to fight dehydration while staying fit and active with Gatorade No Sugar. This electrolyte drink helps recover the body’s lost minerals without the unnecessary calories from sugar.

Electrolytes are key to one’s physical performance and overall well-being, as they help balance the amount of water and nutrients in the body. They regulate nervous, motor, and cardiovascular functions so that mind and body perform as they should.

“We lose more than water when we sweat, and we must take the necessary steps to continue nourishing our bodies to keep healthy. Gatorade No Sugar is packed with electrolytes and essential nutrients to replenish our bodies’ supply especially during the humid Philippine summer,” said PCPPI president and chief executive officer Frederick D. Ong.

More Filipinos will be able to enjoy being active this summer without jeopardizing their health thanks to Gatorade No Sugar. It is offered in top supermarkets, medicine stores, and convenience stores around the country.

In addition to producing and distributing popular brands like Gatorade, PCPPI also produces and sells Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, 7-Up, Mirinda, Mug, Sting, Tropicana, Lipton Iced Tea, Milkis, Chum Churum Soonhari, and Premier Purified Water. Visit www.pepsiphilippines.com for more details on PCPPI and its products.

May 18, 2023 by
Food

Tong Yang and Vikings Luxury Buffet Restaurant extend their partnership with PCPPI


  • Vikings, Tong Yang strengthen partnership with PCPPI. The multi-awarded restaurants recently renewed ties with PCPPI in a ceremonial contract signing in Makati City. Present during the event were (from left to right) PCPPI National Key Accounts – Food Service Director Alex Catindig, Vikings Operation Director Mia Bernardo, PCPPI Area Commercial Head Red Israel, Vikings Group President Jackson Go, PCPPI Region Commercial Head Mayette Guro, Vikings Group Sr. Supply Chain Manager Luzvie Sityar-Villanueva, PCPPI Customer Development Manager Joel Javier, and Vikings Operation Director Hazel Rodriguez.

Tong Yang, the premier unlimited grill and shabu-shabu restaurant, and Vikings Luxury Buffet Restaurant (Vikings), the Philippines’ largest buffet-style dining destination, recently renewed their long-standing agreement with Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines, Inc. (PCPPI). According to the agreement, for the following three years, all branches of the two restaurants will serve only the well-known beverage brands of PCPPI. Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Mug, 7-Up, and Lipton Iced Tea are a few of many. With this, more diners may nationwide match their favorite dishes from Vikings and Tong Yang’s extensive menu with PCPPI drinks.

Jackson Go and Sr., President and Owner of Vikings Group of Companies, were present throughout the contract renewal program. Manager of the supply chain Luzvie Sityar-Villanueva. They were joined by National Key Accounts – Food Service Director Alex Catindig, Region Commercial Head Mayette Guro, and PCPPI Head of National Key Accounts Red Israel.

“PCPPI is honored to continue to collaborate closely with Vikings Luxury Buffet Restaurant and Tong Yang as they take more Filipinos on memorable journeys around the world through delicious food. We look forward to supporting the Vikings team as they further their mission in delivering memorable gastronomic experiences,” said Mr. Israel.

With its legendary status as the largest buffet restaurant in the Philippines, Vikings has redefined the norms of dining quality and flair. Tong Yang’s exceptional assortment of limitless fresh seafood, pork, and vegetables elevates the grill and hotpot dining experience. The Vikings Group also operates the Four Seasons Buffet and Hotpot, Niu by Vikings, Putien, and Mey-Lin restaurants.

Visit www.pepsiphilippines.com for more details on PCPPI and its brands.

May 18, 2023 by