In photo are Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) Chief Sustainability Officer Ernesto Carlos (middle); flanked by (L-R) DENR Undersecretary for Policy, Planning, and International Affairs Jonas Leones; DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla, President of Philippine Alliance for Recycling and Materials Sustainability (PARMS) Jess Reyes; and DENR OIC Assistant Secretary for Environment and Concurrent Director of the Environmental Management Bureau Jacqueline Caancan.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) was recently honored with a Special Citation for Obliged Enterprises during the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) 2026 Extended Producers Responsibility (EPR) Recognition Program: Celebrating Achievements and Milestones.

At the heart of this achievement is APC’s SariCycle® program, an innovative and flexible plastic waste collection initiative that empowers local micro-entrepreneurs, including Sari-Sari store owners, to take a leading role in the community in reducing plastic waste and pollution. This program enjoins small businesses into agents of environmental change as the joint efforts contribute to providing recycling centers with improved feedstock or materials that are clean, sorted and more suitable for processing.

To fuel this program, APC works closely with accredited partners, such as Basic Environmental Systems and Technologies (BEST) and the Quezon City Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability Department (QC CCESD).Through these partnerships, APC reaffirms its resolute dedication to sustainability by delivering initiatives that are impactful, collaborative, and inclusive.

As an FMCG company, this recognition by the DENR validates APC’s approach of embedding sustainability into the core of their operations and empowering communities to take action alongside the company. The award is a reminder that when businesses and communities work together, sustainability becomes not just a goal, but a shared achievement.

In addition, this recognition further reinforces APC’s 2030 Roadmap, which seeks to highly reduce its environmental impact by 50%–all while extending 1 billion people’s healthy life expectancy.

Beyond regulatory compliance, APC believes that sustainability drives healthier environments, empowered micro-enterpreneurs, and stronger local economies. The company also sets the standard for responsible business practices in the country by demonstrating that corporate leadership and national progress can go hand in hand.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) reaffirms its commitment to championing Filipinos’ competency in the sciences by supporting academically outstanding students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies in Japan and require financial assistance.

APC announces that applications are now open for the 2027 Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant, a program that provides deserving candidates the opportunity to take up master’s-level studies in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, or Engineering at partner schools including: University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, Nagoya University, Institute of Science Tokyo, Ochanomizu University, Waseda University, and Japan Nutrition University (formerly Kagawa Nutrition University).

The successful applicant who will meet the program’s qualifications and requirements will receive comprehensive support and access to valuable benefits designed to help them thrive in their postgraduate journey. These include full coverage of examination, admission and tuition fees; full coverage of medical exam, psychological exam and Japanese language training before going to Japan; as well as a monthly allowances. The scholar’s airfare from the Philippines going to Japan will also be covered.

With a renowned education system known for high academic standards, Japan continues to attract numerous students from around the world. According to the 2024 survey of Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), there are about 336,708 international students in Japan, and 58,215 of them enrolled in graduate studies. Data from the JASSO 2022 Career Status Progress Survey shows that a significant number of international graduates get hired in Japan after their studies. 

According to APC Director for Marketing, Sales & Public Relations, Mika Makino, the continued support and investment to the Ajinomoto Scholarship Foundation is anchored on the company’s mission to contribute to the wellbeing of people, society, and planet. She elaborated, “We believe that a world-class postgraduate education in Japan empowers scholars personally and professionally. The scholarship is an advantageous pathway to career advancement and global mobility. It is our hope that with advanced knowledge and training, the scholars will also be able to contribute to developing solutions for helping people Eat Well, Live Well.”

Since the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship Grant was offered in the Philippines in 2010, fifteen (15) full scholarship grants to different universities in Japan have already been awarded to deserving Filipino students.

APC encourages applicants to seize the opportunity to level up their education and careers. To know the full requirements and application process,

visithttps://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2027-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/. The deadline for sending applications is March 2, 2026.

From waste to wear: Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation’s Field Sales workforce proudly wears their new uniform made from recycled materials, a testament to the company’s commitment to responsible business practices.

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) takes another meaningful and purposeful stride towards their mission on sustainability as they unveil their newest initiative: the rollout of eco-conscious uniforms for over 400 field personnel, made with meaning in every thread, using recycled materials. An innovative initiative that reflects APC’s commitment, the uniforms are poised to be a tangible and replicable daily reminder, inside and outside APC facilities of their commitment to reducing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy. 

Together with its partner Custom Sports and Leisure Manufacturing Corp. (CSL), APC gathered, transformed, and produced approximately 7,005 plastic bottles into high-quality, breathable uniforms that support both performance and environmental responsibility.

“More than just a uniform update, this is APC’s commitment to our unwavering commitment to responsible business practices, and our long-term sustainability roadmap,” said Ernie Carlos, APC’s Chief Sustainability Officer and Director for Supply Chain. “Our field sales team now wears not just our brand, but our values.”

As APC’s trusted partner, CSL emphasized the measurable impact of the collaboration. According to CSL Corporate Secretary Adam Clark, garments made from recycled polyester can reduce energy consumption by up to 60% compared to those made with virgin polyester, translating to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. “Our fabrics are made with 14% certified recycled plastic per shirt. We collect from recycling programs, drop-off centers, and waste facilities to give discarded bottles a renewed purpose,” he added.

This initiative supports APC Group’s broader 2030 sustainability goals: reducing its environmental impact by half while engaging communities, employees, and partners in sustainable transformation. It also comes at a critical time, with global organizations like the World Economic Forum warning of alarming plastic pollution levels — an issue APC addresses by diverting plastic waste from landfills and oceans into practical everyday solutions.

Through this campaign, Ajinomoto Philippines once again proves that sustainability doesn’t have to be separate from operations — it can be worn proudly, every day, by the very people who bring the brand closer to Filipino households.

Before the Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship, Rogie Royce Caradang was a college kid with a dream and global perspective. He knew he wanted to do more after he graduated, to expand his education so he could learn everything he could about science.

It was Rogie Royce's dearest wish to make a difference in the world of science. And before the Ajinomoto Foundation Scholarship Program he was in search of direction. Once he realized he was a perfect fit, a high achiever looking to broaden his horizons, he applied and pursued his postgraduate studies in Japan.

His experience in Japan was life changing. But Carandang knew that he was only going to get as far as he was willing to work hard. But in studying abroad and gaining a new springboard towards his dreams, he was able to breakthrough and even make consequential discoveries that may even lead to cures for illnesses like cancer.

Carandang started his Masteral Degree in Aquatic Natural Products Chemistry at the University of Tokyo in April 2013 and finished it in March 2016. He was able to publish his research in an international journal and parlayed his success into a position as a Postdoctoral Fellow at The University of Connecticut Health. His journey exemplifies the Ajinomoto Postgraduate Scholarship’s potential to create global impact while shaping professional and personal growth.

"This scholarship is not just financial support—it is a transformative opportunity to broaden your horizons, advance your career, and make a lasting impact in your field." says the now world-renowned Research Fellow. Carandang attributes his success to hard-work, finding the right focus, and then taking that leap off a springboard into more than he had ever thought he could achieve.

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship program catapulted Carandang onto the international stage. Now it’s up to him to show the world what he is capable of. Nowadays, those goals are so much greater than he could have even imagined as a college kid. His post-graduate studies showed him new dreams, new problems, and new solutions and as a scientist, that’s all he could ask for.

The Ajinomoto Foundation Postgraduate Scholarship is a culturally immersive support program to encourage postgraduate studies in top universities in Japan. This grant supports deserving Filipino students looking to pursue master’s degree in Food Science and Technology, Human Nutrition, Chemistry, and Engineering. The Program is seeking applicants now for the 2026 cycle of awards. Visit https://www.ajinomoto.com.ph/whats-new-archive/2026-ajinomoto-foundation-postgraduate-scholarship-grant/ to know more.

The holidays are all about gathering around a meal and making memories — and what better way to celebrate the season than with a special feast from the heart? Christmas dinners are a time for families to go all out with flavorful dishes, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be healthy too!

As our gift to you this December, we’re bringing you Holiday Healthy recipes that will help you share the cheer with the whole family! From fresh pastas to nourishing mains that hit the spot, these dishes will help you make memories to look back on for many years to come! Let’s Eat Well and Live Well to make this season healthy, bright, and delicious!

Vegan Meatball One-Pot Pasta

Wanna make sure everyone is happy while also keeping your to-do list short? This one-pot wonder is perfect for the busy holiday cook, while providing a healthy, plant-based pair to the usual hearty mains.

Steps to Make:

Mix cauliflower, kangkong, tofu, garlic, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, salt, and flour in a bowl. Scoop a tablespoon of the mixture and mold it into balls. Pan-fry the vegan meatballs in hot oil until golden brown, then drain and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté garlic and onion in additional oil until fragrant. Add tomatoes and tomato paste, then cook until soft. Pour in water and bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente.

Once the pasta is cooked, season with AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Add the fried vegan meatballs and mix well. Transfer to a serving plate, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired, and serve!

Malunggay Pesto Pasta

This bright and healthy dish will bring a pop of greens to your table – something to cut through all those heavy dishes!

Steps to Make:

Blend malunggay leaves, basil, garlic, peanuts, Parmesan, olive oil, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and pepper until smooth.

Toss the cooked pasta with the malunggay pesto until well coated.

Transfer to a serving plate, serve, and enjoy!

Lemongrass Chicken with Garlic Tamarind Sauce

This warm and aromatic main course combines the fresh scent of lemongrass with tender chicken; a perfect centerpiece around to build your meal, made with ingredients with good amounts of Vitamin B6 and protein!

Steps to Make:

Combine lemongrass, garlic, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, calamansi, black pepper, coco sugar, and chicken in a bowl. Mix well and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes.

In a saucepan, combine tamarind, garlic, coconut milk, water, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and coco sugar. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens, then set aside.

Heat oil in a griddle pan and grill the marinated chicken for 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through.

Serve the grilled chicken with the sauce on the side.

Chicken Cajun Pasta

A spicy surprise to heat up the cooler season, this balanced and bold pasta dish is the perfect way to spice up your holiday menu. It’s a guaranteed hit for any guests who love a little kick.

Steps to Make:

Heat oil and butter in a pot, then add chicken and cook until golden brown. Add onions and sauté until translucent, then stir in tomatoes and French beans. Cook for 3 minutes.

Add penne pasta, cream cheese, Cajun spice mix (smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and cayenne powder), and mix well. Cook for 3-5 minutes.

Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with spring onions if desired, and serve.

Creamy Salmon Garlic

Pairing fresh and tender salmon with a creamy garlic sauce, this showstopper is great for any festive gathering. Show some holiday spirit to your family and friends with this blast of flavors!

Steps to Make:

Heat oil and butter in a pot, then add chicken and cook until golden brown. Add onions and sauté until translucent, then stir in tomatoes and French beans. Cook for 3 minutes.

Add penne pasta, cream cheese, Cajun spice mix (smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, AJI-NO-MOTO® Umami Seasoning, and cayenne powder), and mix well. Cook for 3-5 minutes.

Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with spring onions, and serve.

Holidays are best celebrated with food that brings everyone together, and these recipes are great ways to make your gatherings extra special. Each nutritious dish is crafted to fill your home with warmth, flavor, and joy, creating moments and memories worth savoring.

As you prepare your holiday feast, remember that the best ingredient is always the time spent with family and friends. Let these recipes inspire meals that keep the family healthy, happy, and full.

Happy Holidays, Ka-Cookmunity!

Visit Cookmunity by Ajinomoto Philippines for more festive recipe ideas. You may also connect with us through Facebook and Tiktok for more updates.

L-R: Sarah Coe, Redscope CEO, Morexette Erram, CBN Sr. Multi-media Reporter, Cheryl de la Victoria, DA Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section, Dr. Paulyn Jean Ubial, Redscope TWG Chairperson, Koichi Ozaki, President of Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC), Ma. Victoria Abrera, DENR Regional Director for Central Visayas, Atty. Salustiano Jimenez, DepEd 7 Regional Director, Mika Makino, APC Director of Sales, Marketing and Public Relations, Ernie Carlos, APC Chief Sustainability Officer, and Madelin Dofiles, PFT, APC General Manager for Corporate Planning and Public Relations

It was a day of Empowerment, Learning, and Commitment to Health and Sustainability for Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) when they successfully held its Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit at the Marco Polo Plaza Hotel in Cebu City. Building on the success of last year’s event, this year’s summit gathered over 150 enthusiastic young Filipinos, educators, and advocates in a day focused on wellness, nutrition, and sustainable living.

The 2024 Youth Summit is part of APC’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation with the knowledge and tools to make a positive impact on their communities and the environment. The event was filled with interactive sessions, engaging talks, and collaborative activities aimed at fostering a culture of health and sustainability among Gen Z participants.

Empowering Cebu’s Youth for a Healthier Future

APC Group President Koichi Ozaki delivered a remarkable message to the youth and shared Ajinomoto’s vision for a healthier, more sustainable Philippines. “The mission of APC is to contribute to food and wellness to better lives of the future and we take it upon us to inspire the younger generations to become champions of a healthy and sustainable future,” said Mr. Ozaki. “Ajinomoto is here to make your eating experience happy, healthy and satisfying.”

Throughout the day, participants engaged in panel discussions with experts from the Department of Agriculture (DA), represented by Ms. Cheryl de la Victoria, Chief of Regional Agricultural and Fisheries Information Section and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), represented by Ms. Maria Victoria V. Abrera, Regional Director for Central Visayas, exploring key topics such as sustainable nutrition, waste reduction, and wellness practices. Through these dialogues, APC aimed to deepen the youth’s understanding of how small daily actions can lead to significant positive changes for both health and the environment.

Interactive Activities and Youth-Led Solutions

The summit featured hands-on activities, allowing attendees to actively participate in brainstorming solutions for real-world sustainability challenges. In one of the day’s highlights, a Youth-Led Output Activity encouraged participants to develop actionable ideas for living healthier and more eco-conscious lives. Groups collaborated to present innovative approaches, from reducing food waste to promoting planet-based diets, which encourage the increase in consumption of vegetables as reflected in Ajinomoto’s “Eat Well, Live Well” philosophy.

Another successful run of Eat Well, Live Well 2024 Youth Summit by Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation!

The breakout room sessions also gave opportunities for all student attendees to gain first-hand learning experience about the science behind MSG plus witness how vegetables can be turned into a delicious dish using almost all its parts with nearly zero-waste. The best part, they all got to taste it.

A ceremonial pledge concluded the event, with all participants vowing to implement the lessons learned and advocate for healthier, more sustainable lifestyles within their communities.

A Continued Commitment to Health and Sustainability

Ajinomoto’s Eat Well, Live Well: 2024 Youth Summit aligns with the company’s global vision of extending healthy life expectancy and reducing environmental impact by 50% by 2030. Through impactful events like this, APC Group continues to inspire young Filipinos to become proactive leaders in health and environmental stewardship.

To show force on Ajinomoto’s advocacy for a better and healthier future for all Filipino children, APC Group is also bringing the Aji-Ginisa® I Love Veggie-licious School Caravan in Cebu, at the Lahug Elementary School, to continue encouraging and educating the younger generations about the importance of nutritious eating.