In 2023, Mega Prime Foods Inc. strengthens the MBS Program, prioritizing a holistic nutrition journey for kids

The Launch of this year's Mega Bigay Sustansya, the sustainable nutrition program by Mega Prime Foods, Inc. (MPFI), a subsidiary of Mega Global Corporation. This program aims to provide a holistic approach in helping ensure that Filipino families and children get the nutrition they need. 

Mega Prime Foods Inc. (MPFI) is preparing for another year of its ongoing and influential Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) program, which started on October 18. This year, MPFI, in collaboration with the Mega Tiu Lim Foundation (MTLF), has established significant partnerships with organizations and government agencies that share the common goal of addressing the persistent issue of malnutrition among Filipino children.

MPFI has strengthened these crucial partnerships through the formalization of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which play a vital role in advancing the multifaceted objectives of the MBS program within specific communities. Notably, one significant MoU was established with Reach Out and Feed Philippines, Inc. (ROFP), a long-standing partner responsible for program facilitation. Concurrently, the Department of Education Region 8 (DepEd R8), Department of Education Region 4A (DepEd R4A) and European Chamber of Commerce through MOSEP for BARMM play vital roles in beneficiary identification, school and stakeholder coordination, and program-related facilitation. While their roles are technically similar, they are specific to target schools in their respective regions. DepEd R8, DepEd R4A and ECCP, alongside ROFP, work closely with MPFI, demonstrating a shared commitment to improving the nutrition of Filipino children and communities.

Ms. Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Mega Global’s CEO

MPFI has also partnered with the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI), a collaboration that started last year. DOST-FNRI plays a crucial role in guiding the development of the 120-day, once-a-day meal plan, which incorporates MEGA sardines as the primary protein source for identified beneficiaries. They assess these meals according to nutritional guidelines and provide a structure for 16 training activities aimed at educating parents, teachers, and children about nutrition. While ROFP handles meal development, DOST-FNRI's expertise ensures the meals meet nutritional standards.

These synergistic partnerships are set to enrich nutrition and empower communities in the specified regions.

Since its inception in 2019, this sustainable nutrition initiative has been meticulously crafted to empower Filipino families with the essential knowledge and resources necessary to ensure optimal nutrition for their children. As a prominent provider of high-quality and affordable food products, MPFI remains loyal in its dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of Filipino households through the enduring MBS program.

Mr. Marvin Tiu Lim, Mega global's Chief Growth and Development Officer

Data from the 2013 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) revealed that 29% of children aged 5–10 years were considered underweight. This prevalence is significantly lower compared to 2011 (32.0%). However, it is still considered a public health problem.

The survey also noted that the proportion of overweight and obese children increased by 1.7 percentage points from 2011 (7.4%) to 2013 (9.1%). The same nutritional indicators says energy and micronutrient intakes among school children are inadequate were also studied by the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) in2021. Such that the Department of Health also recently said that the rate of malnutrition in the country among infants and toddlers is still high at 20%.

Dr. Milflor S. Gonzales, Chief Science Research Specialist OIC, Office of the Director

The study further showed that undernourished school-aged children were found to have high protein inadequacy. Higher consumption of grains and cereal products, meat, and high-quality protein foods was associated with a lower risk of stunting.

MPFI's Mega Bigay Sustansya 2023 addresses a critical issue by enhancing our program to benefit school children. While our core mission remains unchanged — improving children's health through nutritious meals — we've tailored our approach for students. We recognize that proper nutrition and education are deeply interconnected. Well-fed children can focus on their studies more effectively, leading to better information absorption and overall academic performance. This is especially significant as we partner with DepEd to fortify this vital connection.

Ms. Helen Grace Baisa, Regional Director, ECCP Vice President

MBS 2023 emphasizes the importance of affordable and accessible nutrition sources. In a time when access to nutritious food is vital, MBS seeks to bridge the gap by promoting options that are within reach for Filipino households.

As Mega Prime Foods Inc. continues to expand its portfolio of high-quality, value-for-money food products, MBS 2023 stands as a testament to its commitment to the Filipino people. It's more than a feeding program; it's a journey towards better health, education, and accessibility for all.

Thus, this year, Mega Bigay Sustansya is taking a comprehensive approach to nutrition, addressing the needs of both parents and children.

The cornerstone of the program will be the School-Based Feeding initiative, spanning 120 days and reaching elementary schools in Sto. Tomas, Batangas; Quezon (Lucena, Sariaya, Caluag); Tacloban (Tacloban City, Tanauan, Ormoc); and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). This vital program will cater to children aged 6 to 12, delivering nutritious meals underpinned by brands like Mega Sardines, Mega Tuna, and Mega Prime Quality.

MBS will use a Nutrition Assessment Module that will empower area coordinators and volunteers with precise measurement skills, data analysis prowess, and result assessment acumen to ensure accurate assessment of the children’s progress throughout the program.

MBS 2023, transcending the conventional model of a feeding program, takes a holistic approach. We're reaching out to educate families through teacher-children-parent workshops, offering Basic Nutrition and Meal Management training to teachers, parents of beneficiaries, and the beneficiaries themselves. This training equips them with the tools and knowledge to sustain the nutrition strategy beyond the program's duration. Additionally, Community Programs enhance our impact, providing face-to-face basic nutrition and cooking workshops for families. These workshops empower parents and teachers with vital knowledge, and for young beneficiaries, engaging activities foster camaraderie and learning, enriching their nutritional journey.

Volunteerism also takes centerstage as Mega Prime Foods Inc. relaunches the Mega Employee Immersion Program. This initiative encourages employees to actively participate in CSR areas, partake in kids' graduations, and contribute to the overall success of MBS.

A unique opportunity also awaits the topmost improved graduates, who will embark on a transformative Mega Sardines Museum Experience. This immersive visit will impart insights into the production of canned sardines and affordable nutrition sources, as well as the important work that goes into manufacturing food. This experiential tour will cement their basic knowledge of food nutrition and why it is important for growing children.

Mega Prime Foods Inc. remains loyal to its mission to make a meaningful impact on Filipino nutrition through the Mega Bigay Sustansya program. By adopting a holistic and sustainable approach, involving all stakeholders, MBS aspires to nurture healthier children and families across the nation, fortifying its commitment to a healthier and stronger Philippines.

For more information, please visit www.megaprimefoods.com.ph.

About Mega Prime Foods Inc.:

Mega Prime Foods Inc. is a leading provider of high-quality and value-for-money food products in the Philippines. The company offers a diverse range of products, including canned sardines, tuna, fruits and vegetables, cooking aids, frozen foods, and beverages. Mega Prime Foods Inc. is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of Filipino households through its nutritious and accessible food offerings.

Malasakit in action: Mega Global on running Mega Bigay Sustansya’s third year nationwide

“Our food products are considered to be one of Filipinos’ staple foods. As such, we recognize our role in providing affordable, accessible and nutrition-filled meals to communities, especially those who need them the most. Our MBS program was created not only to give them proper nutrition during the program, but also provide them opportunities to sustain it through our leave-behind materials that will help parents provide nutritious meals to their family that is abot-kaya.” ~Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer of Mega Global

In partnership with Reach Out Feed Philippines, Mega Global Corporation expanded its CSR program Mega Bigay Sustansya to 15 communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The feeding program benefited 881 children nationwide.

Recognizing its role in nation-building as one of the country’s providers of food staples and honoring its malasakit core value, Mega Global, who initially launched the third year of its Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) program in July 2021, continues to boost the nutrition of children nationwide as the program has now served a total of 66,694 meals to 881 children in 15 communities across Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. 

The program, which was mounted in partnership with Reach Out Feed Philippines, aimed to support children in six provinces for 60 days. The feeding program will run until November 2021 and will benefit a total of 881 children ages 4-12 through house-to-house delivery of meals every day. The daily meals provided included at least one sardine meal, made using Mega Global’s nutrient-packed high quality sardines.

Initial evaluation of the kids show that 79 percent of the beneficiaries have gained a minimum of one kilo up to five kilos after 36 feeding days. These kids are the ones who are religiously present during feeding days, and the ones who are being consistently supported by their parents by getting the meals for the kids and motivating them to finish them.

Children ages 4-12 are given house-to-house delivery of meals every day. Upon evaluating the children, results showed that 79 percent of the beneficiaries have gained a minimum of one kilo up to five kilos after 36 feeding days. 

Apart from Mega Global and ROFP, the barangay officials and dedicated volunteers of the communities play a big role in the implementation of the project. The barangay officials ensure that the manpower for the program is enough, and that they remain safe during the distribution. As for the volunteers, they dedicate themselves to creating delicious meals such as Sardines Lumpia, Miswa with Sardines, Tortang Sardines, etc., everyday, rain or shine.

With malasakit as its core value, Mega Global has initially launched the Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) program in 2019 to help children fight malnutrition. Now in its third year, a bigger vision was set to impact more and more Filipinos. The program continues to positively impact the lives of children nationwide through longer program duration and wider reach nationwide. Taking into account the sustainability of the program and its beneficiaries' improved conditions, Mega Global has partnered with Adarna House to produce a recipe workbook that families can use as reference when choosing affordable but nutritious food. 

Mega Global hopes to continue its Mega Bigay Sustansya program in the years to come, reaching more and more Filipinos in need, and spreading the gift of nutrition one can of sardines at a time. 

Mega Global celebrates 3rd National Sardines Day with successful Mega Bigay Sustansya Program

“Mega Bigay Sustansya is one way for us to support communities who need us the most. Canned sardines is one of the Filipinos staple foods throughout the years and through this program that target to feed malnourished children all over the country, we hope to use the same staple product to nurture the health of these children, and sustain it through leave-behind materials that will help them prepare nutritious meals in the long run.” ~Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer of Mega Global

Celebrate this year's 3rd National Sardines Day event with Mega Global Corporation, the company behind the number one sardines brand in the Philippines—Mega Sardines! Committed to providing only the best products and accessible nutrition for the Filipinos through their passion for technological innovation and deeply ingrained value of malasakit for 46 years, Mega Global continues to cement its advocacy by bringing bigger and wider celebrations and plans for this year's National Sardines Day, starting with this event on November 23 with media and bloggers.

Host Shawn Yao with Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Chris Fernandez, executives of the Mega Global conglomerate, alongside Dawn Marie Cabigon, founder and director of Reach Out Feed Philippines were the speakers for the event, who discussed Mega Global's innovation for its flagship product, sardines, its CSR effort Mega Bigay Sustansya, as well as brand updates, and other pertinent information

With Mega Global’s executives: Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim Chan, Marylou Tiu Lim, and William Tiu Lim on November 23, 2021, 1:00 - 2:00 PM, alongside Dawn Marie Cabigon, founder and director of Reach Out Feed Philippines (ROFP), the official partner of Mega Global for its CSR program—Mega Bigay Sustansya. Know more about the results of Mega Global's innovation for its flagship product, sardines, its CSR effort Mega Bigay Sustansya, as well as brand updates, and other pertinent information through this exclusive event.

With successful Mega Bigay Sustansya Program, business updates and first-ever Mega Sardines Piso Sale. As the Philippines marks this year’s National Sardines Day, Mega Global Corporation, the company behind Mega Sardines, the leading sardines brand in the country, honors it through a program that supports undernourished children nationwide, even as it focuses on innovations and expansions that will help drive the company move forward. 

Mega Global Celebrates 3rd National Sardines Day

To add more meaning to the National Sardines Day Celebrations, Mega Global showcased its various initiatives that would help elevate not just the Philippines’ sardines industry, but the economy and people’s lives as well, at a roundtable event held on November 23 to kick off the celebration of the holiday on the 24th. Alongside this, it has also shared the successful results of the Mega Bigay Sustansya Program, which was done in partnership with Reach Out Feed Philippines (ROFP), reflecting its deep malasakit for Filipinos. 

Marvin Tiu Lim, Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Chris Fernandez, executives of the Mega Global conglomerate, alongside Dawn Marie Cabigon, founder and director of Reach Out Feed Philippines were present in the event to discuss how the Mega Bigay Sustansya program will bring long-term gains to its program beneficiaries.

Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer of Mega Global

Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) is a CSR program led by the Mega Tiu Lim Foundation that hopes to give a meal planning and distribution program to over 881 children nationwide. The program has supported children in six provinces nationwide for sixty days. Children ages 4 to 12 have received house-to-house delivery of meals every day that included at least one sardines meal, made using Mega Global’s nutrient-packed high quality sardines.

On top of the updates on Mega Global’s MBS program, Mega Global executives have also shared in the discussion how they strived to continue elevating the sardine industry through innovations and the building of new infrastructures. These expansions would maintain the double digit growth of the company in 2022, allow it to create a more sustainable avenue in producing their products, as well as create new products that will surely be a hit to its customers. 

Michelle Tiu Lim-Chan, Chief Operating Officer, Mega Global Corporation

For the past 46 years, Mega Global has been leading the way in supporting Filipino communities through its investments in the sardine industry, which has provided job opportunities for thousands of Filipinos. The company continued to upgrade its Zamboanga facility, where its state-of-the-art operations, including its can-making plant and offices, are based. As part of its sustainability endeavors, it is using solar energy for its warehouses. 

Mega Global also discussed details about a new plant in Batangas that will be opened next year. Located in Sto. Tomas, Batangas, it will house state-of-the-art technology in manufacturing using sustainable energy sources and is expected to help add dynamism to the economy as it continues to recover from the effects of the pandemic.

Mega SardinaSaya: Game Show Bonanza

On November 24, Mega Global will also be celebrating the National Sardines Day with an online game show bonanza. Kicking this off is an Instagram and Facebook challenge that will determine the players for the much-awaited Pera or Sardinas game during the online event which will be broadcasted live on Mega Sardines’s Facebook page and Shopee app. 

The game show bonanza will have three major segments representing the tagline of Mega Sardines: Sarap, Saya and Sustansya. For the Sarap segment, Mega Sardines’ ambassadress Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo will do a cooking demo that will serve as an introduction of new dishes that mommies can easily create for their loved ones. 

For the Sustansya segment, the audience can learn about the Mega Bigay Sustansya program, the company’s nationwide feeding program being undertaken in communities around the country with the help of its partner, Reach Out Philippines Foundation.

Lastly, there will be a series of virtual games for the Saya segment where fun games such as Pera or Sardinas, Call A Ka-Mega, and Trivia Game will be available for the audience to participate in. There will also be a grand raffle, where they have the chance to take home a wide selection of prizes.

For added fun, Mega Sardines is launching a Tiktok Challenge where participants can show off their moves and have some fun in the process of creating videos to win prizes. Mega Sardines is also holding an eye-popping piso sale in Shopee for Mega Sardines in Tomato Sauce, Tomato Sauce with Chili Added, Corned Sardines, and Mega Fried Sardines in Tausi--definitely a sale that will have customers rushing to add to cart!

Get ready to join and have fun on National Sardines Day with Mega Global! Check out Mega Sardines’s Facebook page for more information. 

Mega Global's plans of turning Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) into a legacy project

“When we first launched this nutrition program two years ago, we saw how transformative it was for the beneficiaries, who not only saw an improvement in their weight, but also in their health and well-being. Inspired by their transformation, Mega Global decided to expand this program and make it sustainable by also educating the community on the importance of having good food and having good nutrition for the whole family.” ~Marvin Tiu Lim, Chief Growth and Development Officer

Now on its third year, Mega Global Corporation, continuing malasakit and reaching more Filipino families one meal at a time - Mega Global’s Mega Bigay Sustansya Program runs for third year in partnership with Reach Out Philippines (ROFP), once again kicks off its Mega Bigay Sustansya (MBS) project that aims to improve the nutrition of children nationwide and provide them with materials that teach sustainable solutions for their health. Good health is the greatest gift that Filipinos can ever receive. With malnutrition affecting many children, it is crucial for the community to work together  to help these children, who will eventually become the future of the country.

With the pandemic affecting the livelihood of everyone, especially the less fortunate, poverty remains to be the number one cause of malnutrition in the Philippines. With the imposition of lockdowns came the aggravation of the number of children who are involuntarily hungry, and this problem continues to persist.

As the country strives to recover from the pandemic, Mega Global Corporation, the manufacturer of the country’s number one canned sardines, Mega Sardines, endeavors to reinforce its culture of malasakit, and create a positive impact in the lives of those children in need through a program focused not only on feeding the malnourished, but also arm them with the knowledge to continue eating healthful meals.

Recognizing its role in helping build the nation, Mega Global Corporation together with the Mega Tiu Lim Foundation will once again hold the Mega Bigay Sustansya program for the third straight year. A health and nutrition program that’s deep rooted from the company’s core value of malasakit. With its determination to improve the health sector of the country, Mega Bigay Sustansya aims to reinforce the importance of nutrition to every Filipino family nationwide and extend a helping hand to those in need. 

As it expands the program, Mega Global will be working in partnership with th Reach Out Feed Philippines, who will spearhead the preparation of the meals daily, deliver these house to house to each beneficiary and provide a nutritional assessment of all recipes used in the program, and will also analyze and evaluate the results of the program. 

The program aims to support 870 children from various barangays across six  provinces through a 60-day nutrition program. These include Batangas, Navotas, Valenzuela, Samar, Surigao del Sur, and  Zamboanga. Beneficiaries are children aged 4-12 years old, who will receive two nutritious meals daily for 60 days. The daily meals will include at least one sardines meal, made using Mega Global’s vitamin- and nutrient-packed high quality sardines. 

At the beginning and end of the program, the weight, height, and mid-arm circumference of the children will be taken to gauge their progress. To encourage parents to support the nutrition program for their children, Mega Global will provide incentives to select participants who fit the program’s criteria - biggest gainer, most improved, etc.  

To further ensure that the progress made is sustained, Mega Global will also be developing leave-behind materials containing affordable nutritious recipes made from ingredients that are easily accessible to the families. This will empower parents and the community with knowledge on how to prepare nutritious meals for the health and well-being of their children and loved ones.

In all that it does, Mega Global Corporation gives life to its core value of malasakit. From products to people to the greater community, every decision made by the brand is anchored onto the belief of malasakit for all. This once again comes alive in Mega Bigay Sustansya, which is envisioned to uplift the lives of impoverished children and allow them to achieve their potentials.