ProPak Philippines 2026 Opens with Record Participation, Championing Consumer-Conscious Innovation for Global Market Leadership

The 6th ProPak Philippines kicked off today at the World Trade Center Metro Manila under the theme "Consumer-Conscious Innovation: Driving Global Competitiveness and Sustainability," marking a watershed moment for the Philippines' top international processing and packaging trade show. The opening ceremony received unprecedented government and business backing, with over 250 companies exhibiting from both domestic and international markets and a projected 10,000 visitors over the three-day event.

Strong Government Leadership Drives Industry Transformation

The opening ceremony was graced by distinguished government officials, including Dr. Renato U. Solidum Jr. from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Assistant Secretary Daniel Atayde for Logistics from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Ms. Anidelle Joy Alguso, Deputy Director General for Finance and Administration from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, Mr. Jeremiah C. Reyes, Chief-of-Staff of the Department of Trade and Industry - Office of the Secretary, highlighting the strategic importance of the processing and packaging sector to national economic growth and food security.

Industry Leader Highlights Market Opportunities and Growth Potential

During the ceremony, Rose Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines, shared interesting insights into the rapidly increasing processing and packaging market.

"The processing and packaging industry in the Philippines is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by evolving consumer demands, e-commerce expansion, and sustainability imperatives. This sector represents opportunities that extend beyond traditional manufacturing to encompass innovation, technology transfer, and sustainable development. The convergence of consumer consciousness and technological advancement is creating new market segments and business models that position the Philippines as a regional hub for sustainable packaging solutions. What we're witnessing is not just industry growth, but industry transformation. Companies that embrace consumer-conscious innovation today will lead tomorrow's markets, capturing both domestic opportunities and export potential in an increasingly sustainability-focused global economy." ~Rose Chitanuwat, Country General Manager of Informa Markets Philippines

Government-Industry Collaboration Energizes Market Dynamics

The event highlights the powerful collaboration between government partners and industry stakeholders, resulting in an environment that drives innovation and market development. This collaboration injects new vitality into the processing and packaging markets through coordinated policy support, R&D activities, and strategic investment facilitation.

Comprehensive Exhibition Floor Addresses Critical Industry Themes

ProPak Philippines 2026 offers enhanced content categories that address the most critical industry concerns and possibilities. This year, it will be the first time for the event to host alongside with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority a seminar series to learn how sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity are shaping the future of industrial growth in PEZA Ecozones, HALAL Conference by the Department of Trade Industry - Export Marketing Bureau on the growing importance of halal-certified products in the global market, and DrinkTech where insightful discussions on the latest advances in Other content sessions and activities included packaging training classes, a forum, a sustainability forum, and a packaging clinic for hands-on consultations with experts on how to improve their packaging solutions.

Record Participation Reflects Industry Momentum

ProPak Philippines 2026, with over 250 exhibitors representing both established market leaders and young innovators, displays the sector's strong growth trajectory. Manufacturers, processors, packaging specialists, technology providers, government officials, and international buyers are among the anticipated 10,000 guests, providing unprecedented networking and business development opportunities.

International engagement includes important markets in many countries, delivering global best practices and cutting-edge technologies directly to Philippine industry leaders. This international dimension promotes knowledge transfer and equips local businesses for greater market penetration.

Driving National Competitiveness Through Innovation

ProPak Philippines 2026 cements the Philippines' reputation as a vibrant powerhouse for processing and packaging innovation in Southeast Asia. By bringing together government leaders, industry experts, and worldwide technology suppliers, the event catalyzes the transformation required to compete effectively in global markets while fulfilling changing customer expectations for sustainable, high-quality products.

The three-day event runs till February 6 and includes specialist conferences, technical lectures, hands-on workshops, and business matching sessions that aim to turn insights into actionable business plans and partnerships.

About Informa Markets 

ProPak Philippines is organized by Informa Markets, a division of Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, targeted digital services and actionable data solutions. We connect buyers and sellers across more than a dozen global verticals, including Pharmaceuticals, Food, Medical Technology and Infrastructure. As the world's leading market-making company, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, please visit www.informamarkets.com.

It’s All About the Ultimate Basic this Summer with UNIQLO

UNIQLO continues to elevate its LifeWear philosophy of improving everyday life through clothing with the launch of its 2026 Spring / Summer LifeWear Collection, centered on the concept of “Ultimate Basic.” Designed to create the ultimate everyday wear with intelligent simplicity and fun, the collection balances functionality with the joy of wearing clothes. Characterized by refined colors, expressive patterns, and thoughtfully designed silhouettes, the new line-up reflects UNIQLO’s commitment to creating clothing that seamlessly fits modern lifestyles. The collection was recently unveiled during an exclusive media preview, offering a closer look at how everyday essentials can be both purposeful and inspiring.

Innovation remains at the core of UNIQLO’s design approach, with the collection highlighting UV Protection garments that combine comfort, performance, and style. These pieces are engineered to provide sun protection without compromising on look or feel, reinforcing UNIQLO’s belief that functionality should be seamlessly integrated into everyday clothing. Alongside this, the 2026 Spring / Summer collaborations and UT line-up bring an added layer of creativity and self-expression, featuring graphic designs inspired by art, culture, and global influences. These statement pieces complement the Ultimate Basic wardrobe, offering playful accents that allow individuality to shine through.

UNIQLO's LifeWear philosophy of improving everyday life through clothing is being elevated once more, with the 2026 Spring/Summer collection centered on the concept of “Ultimate Basic.” The exciting line-up, which balances functionality with the joy of wearing clothes, was recently showcased during an exclusive media preview.

The notion of “Ultimate Basic” is based on modern consumer needs. UNIQLO draws inspiration from the high demand for the perfect everyday wear that combines style and functionality, particularly for the next season. The end result is a vast collection created to embrace both comfort and style for the spring and summer seasons, achieved through playful colors, clever patterns, easy forms, and wise material selections.

“At UNIQLO, our goal is to create clothes designed for life’s needs, following our LifeWear philosophy. Our new collection presents clothes that are light and airy to wear, fresh to look at, and fun to style, because we want everyone to enjoy the warm weather to the fullest. We’ve got new styles, colors, and patterns for everyone to get creative with this season. As always, there are innovations and new technology for enhanced and functional comfort.” ~Geraldine Sia, UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer

UNIQLO Philippines Chief Operating Officer Geraldine Sia, said before presenting the collection and introducing UNIQLO Philippines’ newest line-up of local celebrity partners.

While the season’s go-to may be basic jeans, t-shirts, linen, shorts, and Sport Utility Wear, UNIQLO Philippines Marketing Director Jan Ang said that the brand’s new collection has “elevated these spring and summer essentials to the ultimate level.”

The members of the updated roster, each of whom represented important UNIQLO products emphasized for the season, joined Ang on stage. The Core T-shirt line is represented by popstar royalty Sarah Geronimo, while the Linen line is represented by actor Matteo Guidicelli. The Linen line is also fronted by actress Solenn Heussaff, emphasizing this essential piece for the warmer months. Actress Alexa Ilacad for Bra Top, athlete Kianna Dy for UV Protection, and model Anthony Constantino for Jeans complete the lineup.

Spring Pieces Inspired by Urban Rome Styles

UNIQLO's new season collection is inspired by the trendy and comfortable urban atmosphere of the Italian city. Consider big men's blouses or shirts with shorts for a fashionable and comfortable look that works equally well in the city or on vacation, particularly in the summer. Rome's modern architecture serves as a stylistic guide as well, with clean lines and a bright white palette.

“You can wear a different combination every day and still get the ultimate satisfaction, because both are comfortable and versatile. So, just have fun with it! Express your mood with your color and style!” ~Sarah Geronimo

Linen is another material that works well for this outfit, which Sarah Geronimo wore at the event and paired with a Core T shirt.

Meanwhile, who says jeans aren't appropriate in the summer? UNIQLO's 2026 Spring/Summer Collection centers on three traits that define their jeans: style, comfort, and ageless. Each piece, including the Baggy Jeans and EZY Jeans, is concentrated on the three Fs of Fit, Fabric, and Finish, making them the ideal jeans for summer and beyond, with trendy styles for every body.

“But the UNIQLO jeans are definitely fire. It’s the perfect example of ‘Ultimate Basic.’ It’s an old reliable upgraded with better fabric and craftsmanship. You will go to bed wearing this if you can. That’s how comfortable it is.” ~Athony Constantino

For Anthony, a model, wearing a lot of clothes comes part of the job. 

Fresh summer looks from Amalfi Coast

Meanwhile, lighter fabrics and brighter colors appropriate for the seaside temperature and mood evoke Amalfi Coast thoughts. To begin, choose the W's Ribbed Cropped Bra Top and AIRism Bra Sleeveless Top, or the Premium Linen Longsleeve Shirt and Linen Blend Easy Pants for optimal comfort and breathability. Other possibilities include W's AIRism Bra Camisole, W's AIRism Sleeveless Top, AIRism Crew Neck T-shirt, and AIRism Cotton Crew Neck T-shirt.

“It’s light and low maintenance. In this new collection, I am enjoying the new hues and patterns. I never thought I’d wear a top with built-in bra again since my early teens, but UNIQLO made it so well. Never be afraid to try and explore.” ~Alexa Ilacad

Alexa shared her thoughts about the wonders of the Bra Top, saying. 

“I like the relaxed silhouette and roomy fit at the shoulders, chest, and hem. It’s very comfortable but also stylish at the same time.” ~Matteo Guidicelli

Meanwhile, Matteo rocked UNIQLO Linen during the event, which he believes promotes the perfect summer vibes. 

“Is the most comfortable yet elegant wear in my wardrobe right now. It’s light, airy, flowy, and can be enough as is. You can still layer it, if you want and if necessary, like with knitwear or a cardigan over it. But I really focus more on the shoes and accessories that I pair with it.” ~Solenn Heussaff

Solenn followed, adding her UNIQLO Linen selection.

UV Protection

Feeling stylish and confident in the sun entails being protected from its hazardous rays. Since summer is best experienced outside, UNIQLO introduces the new Ultra Stretch AIRism UV Protection Full-zip Hoodie, which not only protects ultraviolet rays but also has a functional cool-to-touch feature for comfortable wear. Other fashionable options are the Dry-EX UV Protection Full Zip Hoodie and the UV Protection Crew Neck Longsleeve Cardigan.

“Since the weather is about to get hot and humid, I have started refreshing my wardrobe with new UV pieces for my active lifestyle. Wearing something with UV protection gives me the peace of mind that my skin is safe from the sun. Plus, the fact that it has so many colors that fit my outfits, as well as its casual styles, makes it perfect for my everyday looks.” ~Kianna

Moreover, for a true summer staple, UNIQLO introduces a new eyewear line under its 2026 Spring/Summer Collection, showcasing different frames that fit a myriad of looks.

2026 Spring / Summer Collaboration and UT Line-up

The event included an exhibit displaying UNIQLO's important collaborations (UNIQLO: C, UNIQLO U, and UNIQLO × Comptoir des Cotonniers). UNIQLO's UT Line-up for summer is also on display, which is sure to draw notice given how popular shirts are during the warmer months. New designs will include MoMA, Elliot Erwin, Disney, Timeless Magic For All, Powerpuff Girls, SHUEISHA 100, and BABYMONSTER.

Sustainability Initiatives

UNIQLO continues to advocate sustainability efforts, as a brand committed to making a positive difference for the world, people, and society. This season, UNIQLO is highlighting the PEACE FOR ALL Charity T-shirt project, which aims to promote global peace-building activities. To date, the brand has raised more than JPY 2,883,233,700 since the project began in 2022, selling over 9 million t-shirts in all of its outlets throughout the world. The earnings benefit UNIQLO's three partner organizations, UNHCR, Plan International, and Save the Children. Meanwhile, Roger Federer, Haruka Ayase, PEANUTS, Keith Haring, and Christophe Lemair are among the personalities and icons who have collaborated on the many t-shirt designs.

UNIQLO also displays their RE.UNIQLO Studio, which promotes circularity by mending and rejuvenating your LifeWear goods. The Studio provides repair services as well as embroidery to personalize your apparel, adding a distinct flavor and making each piece really one-of-a-kind. This season, the company introduces their newest patches in partnership with Disney, which are available in UNIQLO Manila Global Flagship Store, UNIQLO SM Mall of Asia, and UNIQLO BGC High Street.

Know more about the UNIQLO 2026 Spring/Summer collection by visiting UNIQLO.com and all stores nationwide. For more information and to get all the latest updates on UNIQLO, visit www.uniqlo.com/ph/en/ and follow Uniqlo on Facebook, on Instagram, and on TikTok.

How to prepare fast, nutritious, delicious breakfast

Know what meal of the day is the hardest to prepare?

Many mothers and homemakers mention breakfast. The food preparation process is simple because most breakfast items only need to be fried or heated. However, preparing breakfast menus and presenting something unique, delicious, and healthful every day presents a significant problem. 

Feeling drowsy combined with the strain of meeting morning routines can be exhausting. Planning healthy breakfast menus, cooking them, and cleaning up afterwards may be so time-consuming that some people opt for junk food or skip breakfast entirely.

Of course, this is a big no-no because breakfast is essential for improving physical and cognitive performance every day. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, skipping breakfast increases the risk of cardiovascular death by 87%. Those who eat high-quality, nutritious breakfasts benefit from long-term heart health and are less likely to develop obesity or diabetes.

What will make breakfast prep easier? It is essential to have a range of easy-to-cook, protein-rich, delicious breakfast foods on hand. One of the difficulties in cooking breakfast is serving up non-monotonous meals on different days of the week. When there are different options to serve each day, this most important meal of the day becomes enjoyable for both those who eat it and those who prepare it.

Bounty Fresh, one of the country's top distributors of fresh and processed chicken and meat products, has started a campaign to make breakfast preparation simple, efficient, and enjoyable. Bounty Fresh's "Basta Baon, Bounty Fresh" collection currently includes a diverse range of delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare culinary products. The campaign introduces two new products: Bounty Fresh Chicken Tocino and Bounty Fresh Chicken Tapa. 

The package includes fresh pork tapa and tocino, breaded delicacies like as torikatsu, chicken nuggets, chicken sticks, and pre-marinated, easy-to-prepare chicken cut-ups in popular chicken parts.

The Bounty Fresh breakfast range also contains premium specialty eggs that have unique nutritional benefits. Eggs with organic Selenium (a powerful antioxidant that fights stress and defends the body from chronic conditions that can cause heart disease and cancer); Vitamin D (helps build bones, support immune health, and keep muscles and brain cells working); and Omega 3 (essential fats that are good for the heart, brain, eyes, and joints), together with Bounty Fresh Cage Free Specialty Eggs and Bounty Fresh Premium Eggs with fewer saturated fats and cholesterol -- emphasize the importance of

“These breakfast fare fuel the family for school, work, and daily activities, every day of the week. It is the expression of Bounty Fresh’s desire to provide convenience for today’s busy households by giving homemakers a wide range of choices that are as easy to prepare as 1-2-3. From farm-fresh golden yolk eggs, chickens raised with no antibiotics ever; clean, fresh, tender meat products and breaded chicken favorites, these food choices make breakfast preparation simple without compromising taste or nutrition. Whoever does the grocery shopping can just stack up on the breakfast treats, store them in the freezer, and pick out one breakfast surprise after another on different days of the week. Breakfast will never be boring, repetitive and hard to prepare ever again.” ~Stephanie Balois-Guerrero, Vice President – Head of Marketing of Bounty Plus Inc.

The Bounty Breakfast fare can be enjoyed at home or packed as baon for work, school or short trips too.

About Bounty Fresh:

Bounty Fresh is one of the leading providers of fresh and processed poultry and meat products in the Philippines. Committed to quality, freshness, and innovation, Bounty Fresh offers a wide range of products to meet the diverse needs of Filipino consumers. With a focus on making meal preparation easier and more enjoyable, Bounty Fresh continues to be a trusted name in Filipino households.

Ajinomoto Empowers the Next Generation to Lead a Healthier Philippines through its Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit

Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) reaffirmed its commitment to long-term social and environmental value creation at the recent Eat Well Live Well Youth Summit, which emphasized the importance of nutrition, sustainable practices, and the power of youth as change agents. 

The 2026 Youth Summit, held in Tagaytay for CALABARZON youth, centered on a simple but strong philosophy: Eat Well, Live Well. In a world of convenience, Ajinomoto is challenging young people to understand that the joy of eating should not come at the expense of their health or the environment.

“Ajinomoto is committed to building a network of Wellness Champions. The youth are the best influencers of their social circles and communities. When a student learns how to cook a “Veggielicious” meal or learns a mindful approach to food that minimizes waste and shares these with their loved ones and peers - that’s how we can spark change and create a healthier society.” ~Mr. Koichi Ozaki, APC President 

APC has brought the Youth Summit to Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, involving youth from various schools and communities. This was made possible by the endorsement of the Department of Education's national and regional offices, as well as the cooperation of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Ms. Eduarda Zapanta, the DepEd Chief Education Supervisor of the Education Support Services Division; Ms. Johnalen Aira S. Soberano, the DepEd Region IV-A Nutritionist-Dietician II; Mr. Elbert Basallote, the DENR Regional Community Development Officer; Mr. Felix Joselito H. Noceda, the DA OIC-Field Operations Head; and Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang, the former Deputy Executive Director of the National Nutrition Council. They all agreed that young people who are environmentally and nutritionally sensitive will be responsible for the future of Philippine wellbeing.

CHAMPIONS FOR A HEALTHIER PHILIPPINES. Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation (APC) executives join hands with officials from DepEd, DENR, and DA during the Eat Well, Live Well Youth Summit held in Tagaytay on January 31, 2026. The summit gathered 250 participants from CALABARZON to promote balanced nutrition and sustainable living. (L-R): Mika Makino (APC Director); Bea Menorca-de Jesus (APC Nutritionist);  Johnalen Aira S. Soberano (DepED); Ms. Eduarda Zapanta (DepED Supervisor); Kristoff Buyoc (APC Manager); Dr. Azucena Milana-Dayanghirang (Nutrition Expert); Koichi Ozaki (APC President); and Makoto Tanabe (APC Senior Vice President)

Approximately 250 students from public and private schools took part in incisive panel discussions and engaging learning activities. APC's Nutrition Advancement team organized fascinating discussions about the fifth basic flavor, umami, as well as its attempts to promote vegetable consumption and better understand how umami seasoning or MSG may make nutritious food more appealing. 

APC's Sustainability team, on the other hand, emphasized the Ajinomoto Group's "Too Good To Waste" project, which included simple advice for conscious food consumption, such as choosing to eat more veggies, cooking them deliciously with umami, and minimizing waste.

The summit culminated in a passionate Ceremonial Pledge, when students, instructors, and stakeholders expressed their commitment to the “Eat Well, Live Well” vision. 

“Today is the beginning of your journey as Champions. By integrating these mindful habits into your daily lifestyle, you are not only improving your own well-being but are also leading the change toward a more sustainable Philippines.” ~Mika Makino, APC Director

Mika Makino, the director of sales, marketing, and public relations at APC, urged the student delegates to be change agents as she wrapped up the session.

The Ajinomoto Group is a global company with specialties in the business of food and amino acids, guided by our leading-edge bioscience and fine chemical technologies.

 

Based on the corporate message “Eat Well, Live Well.”, we have been scientifically pursuing the possibilities of amino acids in supporting the healthy lives of people all around the world. We aim for future growth and continuous contribution to greater wellness by creating value through sustainable and innovative solutions for communities and society.

 

The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 36 countries and regions, and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.