Food

Coca-Cola’s expanded initiative officially kicked off with a Tapon to Ipon booth activation on April 29, 2025, at Terra 28th in BGC, showcasing the importance of strong community engagement.

The expanded launch of Coca-Cola Philippines’ “Tapon to Ipon” PET bottle collection program is a significant step in bolstering local bottle collection infrastructure and assisting in the acceleration of PET bottle recovery efforts throughout communities, building on the company’s ongoing sustainability efforts.

The Tindahan Extra Mile (TEM) project is one of the many bottle collection programs run by Coca-Cola Philippines that are combined into one campaign under the expanded Tapon to Ipon program. The program intends to increase recycling drop-off locations’ accessibility for communities around the Philippines, with more than 6,000 collection centers currently operating nationally.

The initiative was officially relaunched with a community activation event on April 29, 2025, at Terra 28th in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), highlighting the importance of strong local engagement.

“Coca-Cola Philippines continues to innovate and improve our recycling systems to help address plastic waste,” said Tony del Rosario, President of Coca-Cola Philippines. “By expanding Tapon to Ipon, we are increasing collection and recycling access and reinforcing our commitment to partnerships that help deliver positive impact in local communities.”

Originally launched in 2021 by Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP), formerly Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc. (CCBPI), Tapon to Ipon has engaged sari-sari store owners, customers, government agencies, and local governments to recover post-consumer clear PET bottles.

“We are grateful to all our partners who continue to support collective environmental action,” said Gareth McGeown, CEO and President of CCEAP. “Strengthening collection and recycling infrastructure has always been a key goal of Tapon to Ipon, and its expansion underscores our shared mission to empower communities and create a more sustainable future for Filipinos.”

The program invites consumers to exchange used PET bottles—regardless of brand—for Coca-Cola product rewards at designated collection hubs, including sari-sari stores and special pop-up booths at major local events such as the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City and Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City.

At the Tapon to Ipon activation in BGC, attendees dropped off their empty PET bottles and joined the “Dunk, Not Junk” shooting hoops game for a chance to win Coca-Cola merchandise, refreshing products, and other exciting prizes.

The aim is to bring the collected bottles to PETValue Philippines, the country’s first food-grade bottle-to-bottle recycling facility located in General Trias, Cavite. PETValue Philippines, a joint venture between CCEAP and Indorama Ventures, plays a critical role in turning post-consumer PET bottles into new food-grade recycled PET (rPET) packaging.

To date, CCEAP has reached over 170 cities and municipalities nationwide. The program has also been recognized at the FMCG Asia Awards, Quill Awards, and Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, underscoring its significant contribution to promoting more sustainable practices and responsible waste management.

Incentivizing community recycling systems

As an expanded part of the program, which now incorporates the Tindahan Extra Mile program, sari-sari store and carinderia owners will also become empowered to be rewarded for their recycling efforts.

Implemented in partnership with Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies, Inc. (BEST) and the Philippine Association of Stores and Carinderia Owners (PASCO), participating micro-retailers collect PET plastic bottles and other recyclables from their communities and can   earn points based on the volume of materials they gather. They can use these points to redeem cash or products through the bXTRA app.

The company’s continued dedication to sustainability is demonstrated by Tapon to Ipon. Through collaboration with retailers, private groups, local government entities, and micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs), the company keeps expanding its network of collection centers, which makes recycling more approachable and interesting for communities nationwide.

To increase community accessibility to recycling, hundreds of collection locations have been set up around the Philippines. Visit the interactive map at https://www.coca-cola.com/ph/en/brands/coca-cola/sustainability to locate the closest collection lo

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

In the photo: SM Supermalls Assistant Vice President for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Royce Cabunag (5th from left), with Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) representatives led by Atty. Joseph Manuel Pamittan (center), along with the MSMEs, at the launch of the Bangus Festival Food Fiesta at SM Center Dagupan in Pangasinan.

Dagupan sparkled with pride, flavor, and Filipino flair as SM Center Dagupan proudly supported local entrepreneurship through SM for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) while bringing the city’s famous Bangus Festival to life with its vibrant Bangus Festival Food Fiesta and up to 70% summer sale.

The yearly Bangus Festival in Dagupan, the Philippines’ Milkfish Capital, was more than simply a party; it was a sincere homage to the industrious citizens and vibrant culture that made the city stand out. And instead of merely attending the celebration this year, SM Center Dagupan made it much better.

From April 25 to 30, SM shoppers and festival-goers enjoyed a feast for the senses with flavorful bangus-inspired delicacies, cultural exhibits, and handcrafted local products — all made possible by MSMEs proudly featured under the SM for MSMEs program.

Freshly packed dried fish from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) attract food lovers.

“The Bangus Festival is a celebration of everything that makes Dagupan special — resilience, creativity, and community. By spotlighting our MSMEs, we’re helping bring their passion and products to a wider audience,” shared Joaquin San Agustin, Executive Vice President for Marketing, SM Supermalls.

Local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) proudly display their finest bangus products.

In partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), this event emphasized the role of entrepreneurship in regional growth — proving that when local businesses thrived, communities flourished.

The Bangus Festival Food Fiesta showcases the best of local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) offerings.

Beyond the culinary extravaganza, mall patrons jumped right into the Bangus Festival Sale, where they could purchase summertime treasures at up to 70% off. It was the ideal combination of shopping, celebration, and savings.

A local vendor showcases their delicious bangus treats.

SM Supermalls’ campaign to support small businesses nationwide has remained anchored on the SM for MSMEs project. By sponsoring events like Bangus, SM demonstrated its dedication to promoting regional artists and customs and making sure that Filipino patriotism and business went hand in hand.

Paldo, the first Korean fine dining establishment in the Philippines, has opened in SM Podium, giving Manila a taste of royalty. Paldo’s modern yet classic approach on Korean food is ideal at SM Podium, which is well-known for its carefully chosen blend of fine dining and innovative ideas. The restaurant, which is owned and operated by Ryan Bang, offers a sophisticated yet laid-back eating experience.

Paldo, which means “eight provinces,” takes its patrons on a journey across South Korea through dishes that represent the country’s rich and diverse food culture. From bold southern flavors to delicate northern specialties, the restaurant brings the heart of Korea to Manila.

At Paldo, the goal is simple: to show Filipinos how kings and queens of Korea once dined, without making it feel intimidating or out of reach. Here, fine dining is made casual and affordable, while still holding on to the elegance and authenticity of royal Korean meals.

Experience the perfect mix of tradition and culinary creativity, where every dish celebrates the finest of Korean cuisine by bringing out its rich flavors and textures.

One of Paldo’s must-tries is Surasang, also known as the “King’s Meal”—a traditional full-course spread once served to royals and aristocrats during the Joseon dynasty. It features an impressive variety of mains and sides, including Doenjang Jjigae (soybean stew), Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken), Braised Back Ribs, Royal Modeum Jeon (Korean-style savory pancakes), and Japchae (stir-fried glass noodles).

For something more curated, try Chef Sam Kim’s Signature Set—a thoughtfully selected lineup of traditional Korean dishes elevated with modern flair. The set includes Briquettes Bulgogi, marinated pork grilled over charcoal, and Doenjang Jjigae, a rich soybean stew with snails, tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables.

Both sets are served with a variety of carefully prepared side dishes, each chosen to round out the meal and bring out the essence of Korean flavors.

Paldo also offers a range of drinks that perfectly suit the bold flavors of each meal, making every bite even more satisfying.

Paldo’s cozy and sophisticated design, which features earth tones and wood accents that instantly immerse customers in a traditional Korean setting, perfectly complements the cuisine and is ideal for both exceptional evenings and informal lunches. Offering a distinctive and sophisticated eating experience amid one of the city’s most popular lifestyle locations, it’s a perfect fit for SM Podium.

Enjoy a distinctive Korean fine dining experience at Paldo, located on the fifth floor of SM Podium. Paldo offers the rich flavors and customs of Korea right in the middle of the city, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself. Visit www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media for more first-to-market brands and exclusive dining experiences. There’s always more to enjoy and share at SM.

The aroma of slow-cooked sauces, the brightness of a wood-fired oven, and the coziness of a well-prepared dinner are all brought to Podium Social at SM Podium by Osteria Antica. The restaurant uses fresh, premium ingredients with a contemporary twist while adhering to classic recipes in its cozy setting.

In the center of the city, Osteria Antica provides a sophisticated yet cozy flavor of Italy for a relaxed lunch or a special meal.

The Art of Italian Dining

The Wildflour Hospitality Group brings in a new Italian dining concept with Osteria Antica that brings in the charm of traditional Italian osterias with a fresh take on Italian classics.

With a Valoriani oven for perfectly baked pizzas and a curated selection of Italian wines and handcrafted cocktails, Osteria Antica stays true to tradition while adding a refined touch. Whether it’s a simple, flavorful pasta or a bold Italian classic, each plate delivers rich Italian flavors.

Signature Dishes That Define the Osteria Antica Experience

At Osteria Antica, each dish reflects bold Italian flavors and craftsmanship, from handmade pasta to expertly prepared mains.

The Endive Salad balances crisp textures and bright, citrusy notes, true to the light and vibrant flavors of Italy.

The Rigatoni Carbonara is a comforting classic, made the traditional way with rich, savory depth.

To end on a sweet note, the Mascarpone Cheesecake offers a creamy, delicate finish that captures the essence of Italian indulgence.

The restaurant also features Bar Antica, which offers a selection of wines, cocktails, and spirits that pair seamlessly with the menu.

A New Culinary Destination at Podium Social

A seamless addition to SM Podium, Osteria Antica offers a fresh take on the classic Italian osteria. The restaurant blends tradition with modern touches, creating a space both welcoming and refined. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in an indoor setting adorned with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, leather seats, and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, or on a charming veranda with a cityscape backdrop.

Osteria Antica contributes to the expanding eating scene at Podium Social, a lively area on the sixth floor of SM Podium that offers a wide variety of culinary experiences and the ideal setting for dining and gathering, with its welcoming decor and dedication to friendly service. With a blend of well-known classics and novel tastes, it keeps solidifying its position as the best place for fine dining as additional eateries come up in the neighborhood. The dedication of SM Supermalls to providing Filipino diners in the center of the city with additional eating alternatives is demonstrated by this expansion.

Experience Italian cuisine at Osteria Antica, which is currently open at Social Podium in SM Podium. For additional first-to-market brands and upscale dining experiences, check out www.smsupermalls.com or follow @SMSupermalls on social media.