Mega Prime Foods Takes a Bold Step into the Global Market with Dubai Launch

Mega Prime Foods Takes a Bold Step into the Global Market with Dubai Launch

Monday, March 24, 2025

Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI) is strengthening its global footprint with a strategic expansion into Dubai, introducing its leading product categories—including Mega Sardines, the Number 1 Sardines in the Philippines, Mega Mackerel, Mega Squid, Mega Prime Corn & Mushroom, and Mega Prime Nata—to the Middle Eastern market.

As part of this exciting move, MPFI participated in Gulfood 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Center (DWTC) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), one of the world’s largest food and beverage exhibitions, alongside the Export Sales and Marketing teams, providing a platform to showcase Mega Sardines’ fresh-catch quality, Mega Mackerel’s rich and flavorful taste, Mega Squid’s quality seafood offering, Mega Prime Corn & Mushroom’s kitchen convenience, and Mega Prime Nata’s refreshing versatility. These products were introduced not only to Filipinos in the UAE but also to Dubai’s diverse, multicultural community, reinforcing the company’s vision: “To bring pride to Filipinos by providing world-class brands that uplift people's lives.”

MPFI also took part in Barrio Fiesta Dubai and Mega Prime Foods at Kooya Filipino Eatery, where key Filipino influencers in Dubai—such as Love, Josie, Bengs Hyu, Pinay Indian Accent, and Kai Torreflores—joined the celebrations, expanding the brand’s presence in the region.

Strengthening its foothold in the UAE market, MPFI has partnered with Baqer Mohebi Enterprises to make its products widely available in Baqer Mohebi Supermarkets across key locations in Dubai.

“Our entry into Dubai is a milestone that reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality Filipino flavors to the global stage,” said Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, President and CEO of Mega Prime Foods. “We are excited to connect with international partners and expand our reach, ensuring Mega Prime Foods remains a trusted name in households worldwide.”

This expansion marks a proud step forward in MPFI’s journey to bring authentic Filipino flavors to the world, uplifting Filipino heritage and solidifying its position as a global food player.

Strengthening MPFI’s Global Presence

This expansion comes at a pivotal time as MPFI celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking five decades of excellence and innovation in food manufacturing. Establishing a stronger foothold in the UAE is a significant step in the company’s mission to make Filipino products a recognized staple worldwide.

Dubai presents an ideal opportunity for MPFI’s international growth: (1) As a leading culinary hub in the Middle East, it attracts top chefs, restaurateurs, and food innovators from around the world. (2) Its diverse and multicultural population fuels a strong demand for international flavors, including Filipino cuisine. (3) With a well-developed food industry and status as a global trade center, Dubai serves as the perfect launchpad for MPFI’s high-quality products.

Beyond its large Filipino community, Dubai allows MPFI to introduce authentic Filipino flavors to a broader international audience, positioning Filipino cuisine alongside the world’s most celebrated food cultures.

Committed to Global Growth

MPFI’s entry into Dubai is part of its broader international strategy, reinforcing its dedication to food excellence, innovation, and authenticity. As it expands beyond borders, the company remains committed to upholding the quality and heritage that have made Mega a household name for generations.

For more information, visit megaprimefoods.com.ph or shop at its official stores in Shopee, Lazada and Tiktok Shop.

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JuanHand Emerges as a Top Trusted and Hassle-Free Choice for Filipino Borrowers

JuanHand Emerges as a Top Trusted and Hassle-Free Choice for Filipino Borrowers

A recent study by Agile Data Solutions Inc., a market research firm specializing in consumer behavior analytics, recognizes JuanHand as one of the most trusted and hassle-free online lending apps in the country, reinforcing its reputation as a go-to choice for borrowers seeking seamless and secure financial solutions.

The study, which surveyed 3,544 respondents through the Hustle PH mini app, revealed that JuanHand is among the top brands with the most significant increases in awareness, trial, and brand preference among online lending platforms (OLPs).

In a landscape where trust is a critical factor due to concerns over unethical and illegal digital lenders, JuanHand sets itself apart by prioritizing security, transparency, and customer-first services. This commitment resonates with users, as 56% of respondents rated JuanHand as trustworthy and reliable, while 53% recognized it as a safe and secure lending option. Additionally, 46% of respondents who currently use a different primary lending app agreed that JuanHand provides a more user-friendly experience than their current provider, highlighting its dedication to making digital lending more accessible and convenient for Filipinos.

Filipinos’ Evolving Borrowing Behavior

The study also found a shift in consumer borrowing habits: Filipinos now primarily use online loans for daily expenses and bill payments rather than debt consolidation. This evolution signals the growing role of lending apps in supporting financial flexibility and short-term cash flow management.

Six years ago, over 85% of JuanHand users borrowed for financial assistance, commonly known as “Pantawid hanggang sweldo.” Now, over 30% of borrowers use loans for business-related purposes, such as e-commerce and online selling. This trend illustrates how Filipinos are leveraging lending as a tool for financial growth— using borrowed funds to generate income rather than merely covering immediate expenses. JuanHand continues to adapt to these evolving needs by offering tailored solutions that empower Filipinos to take control of their finances.

Shaping the Future of Digital Lending

Social media continues to be a powerful driver in financial education and consumer engagement. Facebook remains the most widely used platform among OLP users, while TikTok has emerged as a crucial tool in increasing app downloads and strengthening brand trust. By leveraging these digital platforms strategically, JuanHand enhances financial literacy and raises customer awareness, helping Filipinos make smarter financial choices.

"At JuanHand, we believe that responsible lending goes hand in hand with financial education. By engaging with Filipinos on platforms they trust and use daily, we empower them to make smarter financial choices and build a more secure future," said Francisco 'Coco' Mauricio, CEO and President of JuanHand.

As the demand for reliable and consumer-friendly lending solutions continues to grow, JuanHand remains committed to offering Filipinos a credible and safe borrowing experience. With loans of up to PHP 50,000, affordable rates, and minimal requirements, JuanHand makes borrowing easy— users can apply with just one valid ID and receive approval in as fast as five minutes.

With digital engagement, financial literacy, and competitive loan offerings at the core of its services, JuanHand is set to remain a leading player in the evolving online lending landscape.

Visit www.juanhand.com or follow JuanHand on Facebook and TikTok to stay informed and financially empowered.

1 Data from a survey of Philippine residents aged 18+ (December 2024 - January 2025), conducted by Agile Data Solutions Inc. via the Hustle PH mini app, commissioned by WeFund Lending Corp

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Michelin Expands Its Presence in The Philippines, Opens New Office to Enhance Customer Engagement And Support

Michelin Expands Its Presence in The Philippines, Opens New Office to Enhance Customer Engagement And Support

Michelin, world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences, proudly announces the opening of its new official office in the Philippines. This milestone reinforces Michelin’s long-term commitment to the country, enhancing support for local partners and strengthening its brand presence in the Filipino market.

The new office in the Polaris Building, Filinvest Corporate City, Alabang, will serve as a hub for enhanced customer engagement and support, reflecting Michelin’s dedication to the growing Filipino market. This strategic move aims to strengthen the Michelin brand’s presence and elevate the overall customer and partner experience.

“We are excited to open our new office in the Philippines. We recognize the country’s strong market potential, and this move enables us to reinforce our partnerships, enhance customer support, and further establish Michelin as the preferred choice for mobility solutions in the region.” said Jonathan Khong, Managing Director of Michelin Asia Pacific (Singapore) Philippines Branch Office.

The opening of the new office will enable Michelin to:

· Enhance Support for Local Partners: By establishing a physical presence, Michelin will strengthen collaboration with local partners, providing them with better resources, tools, and expertise to enhance their business operations.

· A Stronger Michelin Brand in the Philippines: The new office will bolster the Michelin brand, ensuring greater accessibility, visibility, and engagement in the local market.

· Commitment to the Filipino Market: This move reflects Michelin’s continued dedication to the Philippines, recognizing its growing market potential and its importance in the region.

· Elevate Customer Experience Through Improved Services: The new office will strengthen sales and after-sales services by providing enhanced support to partners, ensuring Filipino customers receive the highest-quality Michelin products and services.

· Develop Filipino Talents: Michelin is committed to investing in developing local talents, fostering growth and expertise within the Filipino workforce.

Michelin has a long-standing history in the Philippines, tracing its presence back to the early 1990s. The company has evolved its operations to serve the market better, currently working with five key importers to distribute its wide range of tire solutions for various applications, including passenger cars, motorcycles, trucks, and specialty vehicles.

“Our goal is to be a trusted partner in the Philippines, contributing to the country’s development and providing innovative solutions that meet the needs of our customers. We are committed to building a strong and sustainable presence in the Philippines.” Mr. Khong added.

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Ajinomoto Philippines Strengthens Commitment to Sustainability with Key Program Milestones

Ajinomoto Philippines Strengthens Commitment to Sustainability with Key Program Milestones

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC Group) reaffirms its commitment to sustainability as it celebrated significant program milestones with key partners at a recently concluded media conference.

At the event, APC Group President Koichi Ozaki introduced the Ajinomoto Shared Value (ASV), emphasizing the company’s sustainability initiatives. These programs aim to reduce APC’s environmental footprint by 50% while extending the healthy life expectancy of over 1 billion people by 2030.

“Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation recognizes the responsibility we hold in shaping a sustainable future. Our ASV goes beyond offering products that enhance taste—it underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship and corporate responsibility,” said Mr. Ozaki.

Renewable Energy Initiatives

In his keynote speech, APC Group Chief Sustainability Officer Ernie Carlos highlighted the company’s sustainability efforts and achievements. Through a strategic partnership with ACEN Renewable Energy Solutions, APC’s factories in Bulacan and Cebu are now powered by 100% renewable energy. This initiative significantly reduces Scope 2 carbon emissions, preventing approximately 5,000 metric tons of CO2e emissions annually.

Advancements in Green Logistics

APC Group is also making strides in green logistics through collaborations with FAST Logistics and MOBER Philippines. The company has introduced a 100% electric tractor head with a 40-foot container van for warehouse transfers, along with a fully electric four-wheeler van for product deliveries, further reducing its carbon footprint.

Addressing Food Waste and Sustainable Packaging

Beyond energy efficiency, APC Group actively combats food loss and industrial waste. Key initiatives include:

• Donating edible food waste to Scholars of Sustenance, a food advocacy group.
• Upcycling residual food waste into animal feeds.
• Transitioning to sustainable packaging solutions.
• Repurposing single-use plastics through the SariCycle\u00ae program.

A Vision for a Sustainable Future

“Sustainability is deeply embedded in our corporate philosophy. It represents our dedication to driving meaningful change through strategic partnerships and responsible business practices. We are committed to fostering a future where economic growth and environmental stewardship coexist,” said Mr. Carlos.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation remains steadfast in its mission to integrate sustainability into its business operations, ensuring that each initiative contributes to long-term positive impact.

For more information on APC’s sustainability initiatives, visit Ajinomoto Philippines.

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Intertwining Nutmeg Cultivation and Sustainability by Papuan Women

Intertwining Nutmeg Cultivation and Sustainability by Papuan Women

Thursday, March 20, 2025

The perfume industry has recently seen a surge in innovation, with top brands competing to create unique, exotic fragrances. This trend has pushed experts to explore rare natural ingredients worldwide, including nutmeg, traditionally used in Southeast Asian cuisine and now recognized for its aromatic potential in perfumery.

Nutmeg can also be seen in Filipino dishes like suman, bibingka, and biko, valued not just for its warm, aromatic flavor but also for its digestive and anti-inflammatory benefits. Despite growing demand, nutmeg cultivation faces sustainability challenges.

In Indonesia's Papua region, nutmeg harvesting is a family effort, but women dominate post-harvest processing—gathering fallen fruits, separating flesh from seeds, and drying them.

As we celebrate International Women's Month, it's important to recognize the women behind these raw materials. In many parts of the world, women play a crucial yet often overlooked role in agriculture and natural ingredient production. Their labor and expertise drive industries far beyond their local economies, contributing to global markets.

Mama Siti, a 52-year-old nutmeg farmer and cooperative board member leads women in processing high-quality nutmeg. For the Indigenous Peoples of West Papua, the nutmeg tree symbolizes life and is deeply respected, with strict taboos against felling it. Traditional harvest practices include a "wewowo" gathering two months prior, where a kebaya (a traditional outfit) is symbolically placed on trees to prevent premature harvesting. The trees are “undressed” when harvesting begins, followed by a natural land recovery period.

Mama Siti explains, "The nutmeg trees in the village forest of Dusun Pala, Pangwadar Village, Kokas District, Fakfak Regency, West Papua are already abundant, so the men's task is usually only to climb the trees to pick the ripe fruit. As for the processing, so far, there are 118 women who clean the nutmeg fruits, separate the flesh from the seeds, and then dry them under the sun." However, fluctuating nutmeg prices and a biannual harvest cycle make farming financially unstable. Many farmers take on seasonal jobs to survive.

"The price of nutmeg often fluctuates and is unpredictable depending on the season. When the price drops, the income from nutmeg is only enough to meet daily needs. After the harvest season ends, many of us are forced to switch occupations to support our families," adds Mama Siti. "The Tomandin nutmeg tree is not just a tree to us. It is a legacy from our ancestors, passed down through generations to give us life. I can only say that Tomandin nutmeg is a miracle for us."

Kaleka and Wewowo Lestari Initiative

In the midst of these challenges, an Indonesian nonprofit Kaleka launched Wewowo Lestari to enhance nutmeg value while preserving the environment. Through training, women farmers learn improved processing techniques.

"We empower farmers with better SOPs, including solar drying, which has boosted sales revenue by 13-40%," says Kaleka's Executive Board Assistant, Venticia Hukom. Beyond quality improvements, Kaleka collaborates with the French Association Francaise des Dieteticiens Nutritionnistes (AFDN) to develop nutmeg-based products. "Papuan nutmeg was overlooked due to its low oil yield, but our research increased its extraction rate from 1% to 3.5%, enabling its use in perfumes and cosmetics," Hukom explains.

This has opened doors to partnerships with global brands like Hermès and Chanel. Kaleka continues to explore markets for expanded nutmeg-based products, boosting its international competitiveness.

Improving the Local Economy and Preserving the Environment

The Wewowo Lestari initiative has not only increased farmers' incomes but also positively impacted the environment. Through Koperasi Mery Tora Qpohi, a business entity established by and for nutmeg farmers, members earn 11-40% more than selling to middlemen. Fakfak Regency in West Papua, home to 908,850 hectares of forest and where 26,927 indigenous people rely on 56 nutmeg trees per hectare of forest for their livelihoods. Kaleka has supported nutmeg sustainability for nearly eight years. For these communities, nutmeg is more than a commodity—it is a way of life.

Mama Siti said, “By applying local wisdom in the sustainable processing of nutmeg, we can maintain a stable livelihood without having to sacrifice the environment and provide an incentive for us to always preserve the forest, so that we are not dependent on extractive industries that damage the forest.” Maximizing nutmeg’s potential has led to new products like syrups, sweets, and essential oils, increasing its economic value.

"Assisted by Kaleka, we continue to strive to utilize all parts of nutmeg to minimize waste that typically accumulates when it is used as a cooking ingredient. Currently, we have sold approximately 500 bottles of fruit juice made from nutmeg pulp that would otherwise have been left under the nutmeg trees to rot,” Mama Siti explains. The success of Wewowo Lestari brings hope for nutmeg farmers. By fostering collective learning and evidence-based advocacy, the initiative aims to drive policy changes for environmental management and sustainable economic development.

"In five years, we envision a functional social enterprise led by Indigenous communities, where they can sell their nutmeg at a high value, similar to other sustainable commodities produced in West Papua such as seaweed, crabs, and patchouli, which can improve the livelihoods of Indigenous Peoples. In ten years, Kaleka aims to have indigenous forests recognized at the national level, with forest protection policies that could inspire other regions in Indonesia. In fifteen years, we will see a cluster industry of perfumes, essential oils, and fisheries in Fakfak, West Papua," said Venticia Hukom.

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The Manila Hotel Wins Best Heritage Hotel Award

The Manila Hotel Wins Best Heritage Hotel Award

The Manila Hotel, the country’s first premier hotel, has once again solidified its legendary status by receiving the prestigious Best Heritage Hotel award from Tatler Best Philippines 2025. This accolade, part of Tatler Philippines’ newly refined Tatler Best guide, recognizes the hotel’s steadfast commitment to preserving its storied past while delivering the true Filipino hospitality it is known for.

Tatler Best is known for its discerning selection of the country’s finest establishments, offering a sophisticated and detailed guide to top-tier hospitality and dining. The Best-in-Class awards for hotels recognize outstanding performance and enduring impact over the past year, making The Manila Hotel’s win a testament to its lasting excellence.

Steeped in history, The Manila Hotel has long been a witness to pivotal moments in Philippine history, having hosted dignitaries, celebrities, and industry leaders. Its storied halls echo with the narratives of those who have shaped the nation, making it a living landmark of heritage and grandeur.

“We are honored to be recognized by Tatler Philippines as the Best Heritage Hotel for 2025. This award is a testament to The Manila Hotel’s unwavering commitment to preserving its rich legacy while providing exceptional service. We are immensely grateful for the guidance of our president, Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. and the visionary leadership of our board of directors, whose dedication has enabled this remarkable milestone possible," said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing, who received the award on behalf of the hotel.

Beyond its rich historical significance, The Manila Hotel remains a benchmark of luxury and Filipino hospitality, offering a carefully curated selection of experiences. These include historical tours of Rizal Park, Intramuros, the National Museums, and more, as well as the Heritage Museum, which features the hotel’s captivating historical photos and archives. The hotel also maintains an Art Gallery that celebrates Filipino creativity, alongside dining experiences that pay homage to local culinary traditions.

As The Manila Hotel pays tribute to its illustrious past, it also looks toward the future, ensuring that every guest enjoys an unparalleled blend of history, luxury, and true Filipino hospitality—an institution where history lives on.

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City Savings Bank Supports DepEd’s Digitalization Efforts

City Savings Bank Supports DepEd’s Digitalization Efforts

City Savings Bank (CitySavings), the thrift arm of Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines (UnionBank), has reaffirmed its commitment to support teachers and learners through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Education (DepEd) last February 17, 2025. The agreement strengthens its continuing partnership with the DepEd as CitySavings pursues learning and teaching support programs that align with the government agency’s current 5-Point Agenda, which proactively addresses relevant issues in the education sector.

During the MOA signing, CitySavings Chairperson of the Board and UnionBank President and CEO Ana Aboitiz - Delgado recounted, “City Savings Bank was founded by my great grandfather, Don Ramon Aboitiz, together with his trusted business partner, Teotimo Abellana, with a simple vision back then to serve people of moderate means”. She further emphasized, “at Aboitiz, everything we do is anchored in our values and our greater purpose. We applaud DepEd for its commitment to improving the quality of education in our country, and rest assured that we in CitySavings and the whole Aboitiz Group are equally committed to enabling teachers and learners to reach their full potential.”

CitySavings President and CEO, Manuel Santiago, Jr., shared “through the years, we have been focused on our beloved teachers, serving their needs as we aim to be a teacher’s bank of choice. Since 2008, we have partnered with DepEd to provide relevant, accessible, and sustainable corporate social responsibility programs”.

The Bank's donation of laptops to select DepEd divisions across the country aims to advance digitalization efforts and improve learning outcomes in public schools. This initiative also seeks to support the government agency’s programs that ensure learners and schools are prepared for assessments.

DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara expressed his gratitude to the Bank’s active support. “City Savings Bank has long been a trusted partner not just in banking, but in nation building. Ang inyong ‘Tatak Aboitiz’ na malasakit at integridad ay ramdam din sa edukasyon, lalong lalo na sa pagpapaigting ng ating computerization program”. He also commended other CitySavings initiatives to elevating communities through financial inclusion. “Through your financial literacy programs, affordable loans, as well as your support during National Teachers’ Month and other DepEd events, we have felt your commitment that goes beyond profit. Hindi lang negosyo, kundi misyon ang dala nyo”.

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