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.